Hyposensitization

The aim of hyposensitization is to gradually accustom the body to a specific allergen in order to prevent an excessive immune reaction in the event of future contact with the allergen. The patient is given small doses of the allergen to which he or she would react with the typical allergy symptoms in higher concentrations. By slowly increasing the dose, the immune system has sufficient time to get used to the allergen and no longer reacts excessively. Hyposensitization is available for the treatment of house dust mite, insect venom and pollen allergies, among others.

Subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy

There are two forms of hyposensitization: SCIT (subcutaneous immunotherapy) and SLIT (sublingual immunotherapy). In SCIT, a defined amount of allergen extract is injected under the skin of the upper arm. The patient waits in the practice for 30 minutes after the injection for observation.

In SLIT, the triggering allergens are placed under the tongue in the form of solutions or sublingual tablets and absorbed by the oral mucosa. SLIT does not have to be carried out on an outpatient basis in the practice, but can be carried out independently at home. Regular medical check-ups are recommended.

As a rule, anti-allergic medication can continue to be taken during SCIT and SLIT.