Subcutaneous immunotherapy against tree pollen, grass pollen, artemisia pollen, <i>Alternaria alternata</i> and house dust mites efficiency mediators: a review

Abstract

Subcutaneous immunotherapy is a preferred desensitization technique against allergens, however generalized efficacy criteria are  lacking. This research aimed to gather data on methods to determine the efficacy of subcutaneous therapy for various allergens  including tree pollen, grass pollen, artemisia pollen, Alternaria alternata and house dust mites. Immunologic methods assessing IgE,  interleukin levels, arachidonic acid metabolites, TNF-α, GM-CSF, and IFN-γ in patient plasma pre and post-treatment are best to determine  efficacy as these markers directly relate to allergic reactions. In this study publications, scientific articles and research related  to the effectiveness of subcutaneous immunotherapy against tree pollen (hazelnut, alder, birch), grass pollen, artemisia pollen, Alternaria  alternata and house dust mites were used. An extensive review of the scientific literature using various scientific databases,  including PubMed, Scopus, was carried out. Clinical parameters depend on reaction type. For atopic dermatitis, SCORAD and visual  analog scales reflect skin damage and quality of life. For asthma, PEFR, FEV1 and FVC 25%-75% determine bronchoobstruction severity.  For rhinoconjunctivitis, visual analog and RQLQ scales assess quality of life and severity. Other efficacy measures are reductions in  maintenance medications, glucocorticoids, and provocation test responses.