Study of Specific Allergen Immunotherapy in Grass Pollen Allergic Subjects With Epicutanoeus Allergen Administration
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2010-11-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis or hay fever is a common atopic condition that is frequently
seen in clinical practice. Grass pollen is the major cause of pollinosis in many parts of the
world. Immunotherapy is the only treatment that may affect the natural course of allergic
diseases, and it may also prevent the development of asthma in patients with allergic
rhinitis. With conventional subcutaneous desensitization the duration of treatment is around
3-5 years and usually comprises around 30-100 allergen injections. As high allergen doses
have to be injected, allergic side effects may occur and patients must stay under medical
supervision for at least 1 hour. Transcutaneous immunization (TCI) is a needle -free
technique that delivers antigens and adjuvants to potent epicutaneous immune cells. The aim
of the new epicutaneous route of desensitization is to more specifically target the immune
system by loading Langerhans cells with the allergen. Lower antigen doses can be applied,
such that side effects are reduced.