1. Maintenance venom immunotherapy administered at a 3-month interval preserves safety and efficacy and improves adherence.
- Author
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Cavallucci E, Ramondo S, Renzetti A, Turi MC, Di Claudio F, Braga M, Incorvaia C, Schiavone C, Ballone E, and Di Gioacchino M
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Adult, Aged, Bee Venoms immunology, Desensitization, Immunologic adverse effects, Drug Administration Schedule, Female, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Patient Compliance, Wasp Venoms immunology, Bee Venoms administration & dosage, Desensitization, Immunologic methods, Hypersensitivity therapy, Insect Bites and Stings therapy, Wasp Venoms administration & dosage
- Abstract
Background: Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy (VIT) is a safe and effective approach to insect sting allergy. However, after discontinuation, relapses can occur in some patients, especially those with a high occupational risk, and they may need to prolong VIT indefinitely. In order to improve adherence, we propose extending the interval between injections of maintenance VIT (MVIT)., Objective: To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and patient acceptance of a 3-month interval between MVIT injections in a group of Hymenoptera-allergic patients who are occupationally exposed to insect stings., Patients and Methods: We included 72 patients with severe systemic reactions to Hymenoptera stings. MVIT was administered for 4 years at intervals increasing up to 3 months and then continued for a further 2 years. Patients were informed of the risk of relapse after discontinuation and of the need for indefinite treatment at 3-month intervals., Results: During the 3-month interval maintenance phase, only 235 local reactions (17.8%) were observed in 17 patients. Sixty patients experienced 125 field re-stings and only 1 experienced a systemic reaction with generalized urticaria., Conclusions: The study confirms that the conventional MVIT interval of 4 to 6 weeks can be extended to 3 months in most patients with no adverse events, while maintaining safety and efficacy, improving adherence, and guaranteeing safe continuation of professional activity.
- Published
- 2010