Immunotherapy Alternatives

Session Description

This 20-minute didactic session will begin by focusing on the anatomy and physiology of the immune system with respect to desensitization against food and airborne allergens. The cellular mechanisms within the skin and mucosa of the aerodigestive tract will be highlighted. The remainder of the session will focus on the alternatives for immunotherapy that are both available today as well as those under investigation. The incidence of allergic disease continues to increase, causing a significant impact on quality of life. Traditional desensitization relied on subcutaneous injection, but over the past few decades newer delivery techniques have become part of the standard of care which offer comparable efficacy with improved convenience and safety, particular with respect to food allergy. Additional routes of delivery which have been developed include the oral cavity mucosa, the mucosa of the small intestine and the skin via a transdermal mechanism. Modifications have also been made to the allergen being delivered to improve safety and efficacy. The benefits and risks of these modifications will be discussed. Practical clinical applications, relevant regulatory and reimbursement issues will also be discussed, followed by a brief period for questions and answers.