Immunotherapy with insect venoms: Entomologist ´s expertise secures choice of treatment

Hymenoptera venom allergy may lead to severe allergic reactions to the point of life-threatening anaphylaxis. Between 0.3%-7.5% of adults [1] and 0.15-3.4% of children [2] develop systemic anaphylactic reactions, varying from mere cutaneous to severe organ symptoms [3]. The only causal therapy is Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy (IT) [4]. In affected patients, it is important to distinguish between honeybee and Vespula (yellow jacket) stings. This requires a detailed medical history that frequently requires photographic evidence.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Source Type: research