Intralymphatic allergen administration renders specific immunotherapy faster and safer: A randomized controlled trial

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0803725105
• Publication Date: 2008-11-11T02:25:47Z
• Authors: Gabriela Senti; Bettina M. Prinz ...; Iris Erdmann; Mella I. Diaz; Richard Markus; Stephen J. McCormack; John J. Simard; Brunello Wüthrich; Reto Crameri; Nicole Graf; Pål Johansen; Thomas M. Kündig
• Keywords: Allergen Immunotherapy; Hay fever; Sublingual administration

The only causative treatment for IgE-mediated allergies is allergen-specific immunotherapy. However, fewer than 5% of allergy patients receive immunotherapy because its long duration and risk allergic side effects. We aimed at enhancing s.c. by direct administration allergen into lymph nodes. objective was to evaluate safety efficacy compared with conventional In a monocentric open-label trial, 165 grass pollen-induced rhinoconjunctivitis were randomized either 54 injections pollen extract over 3 years [cumulative dose 4,031,540 standardized quality units (SQ-U)] or intralymphatic 2 months (cumulative 3,000 SQ-U). Patients evaluated after 4 months, 1 year, nasal provocation, skin prick testing, IgE measurements, symptom scores. Three low-dose administrations increased tolerance provocation already within (P < 0.001). Tolerance lasting equivalent that achievable standard = 0.291 years). Intralymphatic ameliorated hay fever symptoms 0.001), reduced test reactivity decreased specific serum caused adverse events enhanced compliance less painful venous puncture 0.018). conclusion, time from 8 weeks.