Abstract | BACKGROUND:
Immunotherapy is a recognized component in the management of allergic rhinitis. Its efficacy has been evaluated in a number of clinical field trials. These methods of evaluation are limited by control of antigen exposure. OBJECTIVE: A study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapy in ragweed-induced rhinoconjunctivitis using an environmental exposure unit. METHODS: Forty-three subjects were grouped into (1) immunotherapy group: ragweed-allergic subjects on maintenance ragweed immunotherapy for at least 2 years (N = 16), (2) positive control group: ragweed-allergic subjects who had never received immunotherapy (n = 16), and (3) negative control group: ragweed-nonallergic subjects (N = 11). Ragweed specific skin tests and ragweed IgE levels were obtained prior to exposure. The study was done in a room where levels of 2,500 to 3,000 grains m3 of ragweed were maintained over three hours. Symptoms were recorded every 15 minutes. RESULTS: Nasal symptoms in the immunotherapy group were significantly less than in the positive control group after 45 minutes (P = .025). Significant differences were not observed for ocular symptoms. Combined nasal and ocular scores were 50% less in the immunotherapy group than in the positive control group by 75 minutes (P = .039). Ragweed-specific skin tests and IgE were significantly less in the immunotherapy group than in the positive control group. Rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms in the negative control group were absent throughout. CONCLUSIONS: Controlled ragweed pollen exposure in this setting demonstrated that ragweed immunotherapy significantly reduced symptoms of ragweed- allergic rhinitis but had no significant effect on ocular symptoms. This system presents opportunities for additional studies on immunotherapy for allergic respiratory conditions.
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Authors | J P Donovan, D L Buckeridge, M P Briscoe, R H Clark, J H Day |
Journal | Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
(Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol)
Vol. 77
Issue 1
Pg. 74-80
(Jul 1996)
ISSN: 1081-1206 [Print] United States |
PMID | 8705641
(Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Controlled Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Allergens
(administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
- Environment, Controlled
- Female
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Active
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Plant Proteins
(administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
- Pollen
(immunology)
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal
(immunology, therapy)
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