Thailand Medical Expert Highlights New Ways to Tackle Respiratory Allergies with Allergen Immunotherapy
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Nov 10, 2024 1 week, 5 days, 13 hours, 37 minutes ago
Thailand Medical: Allergen Immunotherapy (AIT) has long been a lifeline for people suffering from respiratory allergies, offering a way to reduce symptoms and prevent disease progression. This traditional treatment method has evolved to offer various methods for symptom relief. However, researchers are pushing boundaries, seeking better ways to address limitations, such as prolonged treatment times and potential side effects. Novel approaches in allergen immunotherapy aim to increase effectiveness while making treatments safer and more convenient.
Thailand Medical Expert Highlights New Ways to Tackle Respiratory Allergies
with Allergen Immunotherapy
Understanding the Basics of Allergen Immunotherapy
AIT involves administering small amounts of allergen extracts over time to build the body’s tolerance. This
Thailand Medical News report will explore how new delivery methods are being tested alongside traditional subcutaneous (under the skin) and sublingual (under the tongue) routes. These advances include new ways to present allergens to the immune system and innovative combinations with other drugs to enhance safety.
The Novel Methods in Allergen Immunotherapy
Research conducted by a scientist from the Faculty of Medicine at Chiang Mai University in Thailand has focused on optimizing these new immunotherapy techniques. Some exciting developments include:
-Intralymphatic Immunotherapy (ILIT): In ILIT, allergens are injected directly into lymph nodes, stimulating a strong immune response with smaller doses and fewer injections. Early studies in Europe showed that three ILIT doses over two months were almost as effective as a three-year traditional course. Patients experienced fewer side effects and improved adherence to the treatment schedule.
-Epicutaneous Immunotherapy (EPIT): This method uses patches applied to the skin, delivering allergens through the outer layers without direct injections. Early trials showed a notable improvement in symptoms, especially among children, who are more compliant with this needle-free option. The technique does require refining, as it can cause mild skin irritation for some patients.
-Biologics Combined with AIT: Combining AIT with biologics, such as monoclonal antibodies, enhances the immune response. For example, omalizumab, an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, has shown success when combined with AIT in reducing symptoms. It is especially effective for asthma patients and for those who have shown resistance to traditional methods.
-Modified Allergens and Peptide-Based Therapies: Scientists are also modifying allergen molecules to reduce their ability to cause severe allergic reactions while maintaining their immunological benefits. Peptide-based therapies that use smaller fragments of allergens are being tested to improve safety and allow for higher doses with fewer side effects.
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lt;strong>How These Methods Work in the Body
The goal of these new methods is to shift the immune response away from one that overreacts to allergens. ILIT, for instance, directly introduces allergens to the lymphatic system, reducing allergic reactions through targeted immune modulation. On the other hand, EPIT leverages the skin’s natural immune pathways, aiming to increase tolerance without the need for injections. By targeting immune cells precisely, these methods could potentially cut down treatment time from years to months.
Key Study Findings on Effectiveness and Safety
Recent studies emphasize the long-term benefits of these novel AIT methods. In particular, clinical trials found that patients using ILIT for grass pollen allergies maintained improved allergy symptoms for up to three years after treatment ended. Studies on EPIT, while promising, need further testing to determine whether symptom improvements are long-lasting compared to traditional AIT methods.
In terms of safety, ILIT and EPIT offer options with fewer side effects, particularly local reactions instead of systemic allergic responses. Combining AIT with biologics also shows promise in minimizing treatment risks. Research shows that patients with allergic asthma who used omalizumab combined with AIT had improved lung function and fewer severe reactions. In short, these methods provide an encouraging path for those who have previously struggled with standard AIT due to adverse effects.
Conclusion: A Brighter Future for Allergy Patients
These new approaches to allergen immunotherapy represent significant progress for respiratory allergy sufferers, with the potential for improved safety, convenience, and effectiveness. By expanding treatment options beyond injections and oral tablets, researchers are making it easier for patients to stick with and benefit from their allergy treatments. Although each method has its challenges and requires further research, particularly in long-term studies, the future of AIT is looking promising.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Pharmaceuticals.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/17/11/1510
For the latest on research concerning Allergies, keep on logging to
Thailand Medical News.
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