Transition between subcutaneous and sublingual allergen immunotherapy: Recommendations of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology (ASBAI).

The use of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) in Brazil has specific regional conditions owing to the pattern of allergen sensitization, as well as to genetic, socioeconomic, and cultural characteristics. This review article aims to discuss the clinical practice of AIT by the subcutaneous or sublingual route in Brazil, addressing the possibilities of transition between these forms of administration. A systematic review using the PubMed and Cochrane databases was performed, and the websites of major allergy and immunology organizations were consulted. Knowledge of the mechanism of action of subcutaneous immunotherapy and sublingual immunotherapy, together with Brazilian real-life experience, allowed us to establish recommendations regarding switching routes of AIT administration in selected cases. Careful analysis of each clinical situation is necessary to perform the transition between subcutaneous and sublingual allergen immunotherapy.

Distúrbios do olfato, uma revisão narrativa do diagnóstico ao tratamento / Olfactory dysfunction: a narrative review from diagnosis to treatment

Os distúrbios do olfato (DO) impactam de forma significativa na qualidade de vida dos indivíduos, e o conhecimento teórico a respeito do assunto deve ser de domínio dos alergologistas e imunologistas clínicos, possibilitando, assim, o seu diagnóstico e implementação de intervenções. Suas causas podem ser variadas, entre elas estão: rinite alérgica, rinossinusite crônica com ou sem pólipos, infecções de vias aéreas superiores, exposição a substâncias químicas, doenças neurológicas, drogas, traumas e o próprio envelhecimento. O olfato pode ser avaliado e mensurado através de testes com metodologias diferentes, cujo objetivo é avaliar parâmetros como a identificação de odores, limiar e discriminação olfativa. Esses testes são de fundamental importância para caracterizar objetivamente a queixa do paciente, como também avaliar o olfato antes e após determinada aplicação terapêutica. O tratamento das desordens olfativas é baseado em sua etiologia, portanto determinar a sua causa é indispensável para uma melhor eficácia no manejo. Entre as principais opções estão os corticoides tópicos, com impacto significativo nos pacientes com doença sinusal associada, treinamento olfatório e outras intervenções como ômega 3, vitamina A intranasal, e terapias que ainda requerem mais estudos.

Olfactory dysfunction significantly impacts quality of life, and allergists and clinical immunologists must be informed about it for diagnostic and interventional purposes. The causes are varied: allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis with or without polyps, upper airway infections, exposure to chemicals, neurological diseases, drugs, trauma, and aging itself. Olfactory function can be evaluated and measured by several tests that use different methodologies to evaluate and identify odors, olfactory threshold, and olfactory discrimination. These tests are fundamental for objectively characterizing patient complaints and evaluating olfactory function before and after therapeutic interventions. Olfactory disorders are treated according to their etiology, so determining their cause is a major factor in treatment efficacy. The main options include topical corticosteroids, which have a significant impact on patients with sinus disease, olfactory training, other therapies (such as omega 3 and intranasal vitamin A), in addition to therapies that require further research.

IgE and IgG4 Epitopes of Dermatophagoides and Blomia Allergens before and after Sublingual Immunotherapy.

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is used worldwide to treat house dust mites (HDM) allergy. Epitope specific immunotherapy with peptide vaccines is used far less, but it is of great interest in the treatment of allergic reactions, as it precludes the drawbacks of allergen extracts. The ideal peptide candidates would bind to IgG, blocking IgE-binding. To better elucidate IgE and IgG4 epitope profiles during SLIT, sequences of main allergens, Der p 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, 23 and Blo t 5, 6, 12, 13, were included in a 15-mer peptide microarray and tested against pooled sera from 10 patients pre- and post-1-year SLIT. All allergens were recognized to some extent by at least one antibody isotype and peptide diversity was higher post-1-year SLIT for both antibodies. IgE recognition diversity varied among allergens and timepoints without a clear tendency. Der p 10, a minor allergen in temperate regions, was the molecule with more IgE-peptides and might be a major allergen in populations highly exposed to helminths and cockroaches, such as Brazil. SLIT-induced IgG4 epitopes were directed against several, but not all, IgE-binding regions. We selected a set of peptides that recognized only IgG4 or were able to induce increased ratios of IgG4:IgE after one year of treatment and might be potential targets for vaccines.

Dupilumab efficacy and safety in Latin American patients with uncontrolled, moderate-to-severe asthma: phase 3 LIBERTY ASTHMA QUEST study.

OBJECTIVE: While advances in asthma care have been made in Latin America, there is still a large unmet need in patients with uncontrolled asthma. This post hoc analysis of the QUEST study assessed safety and efficacy of dupilumab in the subgroup of patients enrolled in Latin American countries with a type 2 inflammatory asthma phenotype (blood eosinophils ≥ 150cells/µL or FeNO ≥25ppb). METHODS: LIBERTY ASTHMA QUEST (NCT02414854) was a phase 3, multinational, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in patients with uncontrolled, moderate-to-severe asthma. Eligible patients ≥ 12 years of age were randomized in a 2:2:1:1 ratio to receive 52 weeks of add-on subcutaneous dupilumab 200 or 300 mg every 2 weeks or matched-volume placebos. Pre-specified co-primary efficacy endpoints were the annualized rate of severe exacerbations during the treatment period and the change from baseline in pre-bronchodilator FEV1 at treatment week 12. Asthma control, changes in asthma biomarker levels, and dupilumab safety were also evaluated. RESULTS: 530 (27.9% of the overall QUEST population; dupilumab: 353, placebo: 177) Latin-American patients were recruited; 420 (79.2%) had a type 2 inflammatory asthma phenotype. Dupilumab vs placebo reduced the annualized rate of severe exacerbations by 52.7% (P < 0.001) and increased pre-bronchodilator FEV1 at week 12 by 0.15 L (P < 0.001), in the type 2 population. Safety was consistent with the known dupilumab safety profile. CONCLUSIONS: Consistent with the results in the overall population, dupilumab reduced the risk of severe asthma exacerbations and improved lung function in Latin American patients with uncontrolled, moderate-to-severe asthma and a type 2 phenotype.

Good clinical practice recommendations in allergen immunotherapy: Position paper of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology - ASBAI.

Background: Allergen Immunotherapy (AIT) represents one of the pillars in the treatment of allergic diseases. AIT is the only therapeutic strategy with curative potential, promoting the reduction of drug use and long-term symptom control even after the end of the treatment. The European Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (EAACI) guidelines, position papers of World Allergy Organization (WAO), and the US Practice Parameters are the leading official documents that set scientific standard for the use of AIT in the world. The use of AIT in Brazil has specific regional conditions due to the pattern of allergen sensitization, as well as genetic, socioeconomic, and cultural characteristics, climate conditions, and the availability of allergenic extracts. The most prevalent house dust mites are Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae and their allergens have the highest clinical relevance. Blomia tropicalis is also very frequent. This position paper has been prepared by the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (ASBAI) Taskforce on AIT for respiratory allergy and Hymenoptera venom allergy. Objective: According to the current scientific literature adapted to the Brazilian reality, this position paper aims to establish the main recommendations for the good clinical practice parameters for AIT in Brazil. Methods: A systematic review using the Pub Med and Cochrane databases was performed, and the websites of major allergy and immunology organizations were consulted. The research was limited to English language literature and was conducted between March 30, 2002, and March 30, 2022. The terms used for the research were: Allergen Immunotherapy, sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), venom-specific immunotherapy (VIT), and allergen extract. Results: The several recommendations that establish the clinical practices for AIT recommended by the main Allergy, Asthma and Immunology world organizations were analyzed and adapted to the Brazilian situation. Conclusion: This position paper establishes the main recommendations for the effective clinical practice of AIT in Brazil, using current knowledge of evidence-based medicine and precision medicine.

Airway inflammatory profile among cleaning workers from different workplaces.

BACKGROUND: Cleaning workers represent a significant proportion of the active population worldwide, with poor remuneration, particularly in developing countries. Despite this, they remain a relatively poorly studied occupational group. They are constantly exposed to agents that can cause symptoms and respiratory problems. This study aimed to evaluate upper airway inflammation in professional cleaning workers in three different occupational settings by comparing nasal cytology inflammation and clinical profiles. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study on the prevalence of upper airway inflammation and symptoms of asthma/rhinitis related to cleaning work, according to workplace. A total of 167 participants were divided into four groups: hospital, university, housekeeper and control. A nasal swab was collected for upper airway inflammation evaluation. Clinical profiles and respiratory symptom employee evaluations were performed using specific questionnaires (European Community Respiratory Health Survey-ECRS and the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood-ISAAC). RESULTS: Cleaning workers showed increased neutrophils and lymphocytes; the hospital and university groups showed increased macrophages compared to the housekeeper and control groups. The hospital and housekeeper groups showed increased eosinophils when they performed cleaning services for up to one year and reported having more asthma symptoms than the control group. Cleaning workers showed increased rhinitis symptoms. The university group showed increased rhinitis symptoms aggravated by the workplace compared with the hospital and housekeeper groups. Cleaning workers showed an increased affirmative response when directly asked about rhinitis symptoms compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Cleaning workers showed airway inflammation, asthma symptoms and rhinitis, regardless of the occupational environment to which they were exposed, as well as showed increased rhinitis and asthma symptoms. Hospital cleaning workers showed increased macrophages, lymphocytes and eosinophils compared to the others. The length of time spent performing cleaning work was not related to nasal inflammation or respiratory symptoms in this population. However, there were differences in workplaces. Registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03311048. Registration date: 10.16.2017. Retrospectively registered.

Efficacy of House Dust Mite Sublingual Immunotherapy in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Sensitization to house dust mites (HDMs) is frequent in patients with atopic dermatitis. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extract in patients with atopic dermatitis sensitized to HDM. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we enrolled 91 patients 3 years or older, with SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) score greater than or equal to 15 and positive skin test result and/or IgE to D pteronyssinus. Patients were stratified according to age (<12 and ≥12 years) to receive HDM SLIT or placebo for 18 months. Primary outcome was a greater than or equal to 15-point decrease in SCORAD score. Secondary outcomes were decreases in SCORAD and objective SCORAD, Eczema Area and Severity Index, visual analog scale for symptoms, and pruritus scale scores; Investigator's Global Assessment 0/1; and decrease greater than or equal to 4 points in Dermatology Life Quality Index. Background therapy was maintained. RESULTS: A total of 66 patients completed the study (35 HDM SLIT, 31 placebo). After 18 months, 74.2% and 58% of patients in the HDM SLIT group and the placebo group, respectively, showed greater than or equal to 15-point decrease in SCORAD score (relative risk, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.89-1.83). Significant SCORAD score decreases from baseline of 55.6% and 34.5% in HDM SLIT and placebo groups (mean difference, 20.4; 95% CI, 3.89-37.3), significant objective SCORAD score decreases of 56.8% and 34.9% in HDM SLIT and placebo groups (mean difference, 21.3; 95% CI, 0.66-41.81), and more patients with Investigator's Global Assessment 0/1 in the HDM SLIT group as compared with the placebo group (14 of 35 vs 5 of 31; relative risk, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.09-6.39) were observed at 18 months. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that HDM SLIT may be effective in HDM-sensitized patients as an add-on treatment for atopic dermatitis.

Posicionamento da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia sobre o manejo da imunoterapia específica com alérgenos (ITA) em pacientes vacinados contra COVID­19 / Position statement of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology on the management of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) in patients vaccinated against COVID­19

A pandemia de COVID-19 representa um grande desafio para todas as especialidades médicas. A imunoterapia com alérgenos (ITA) é considerada o único procedimento terapêutico capaz de modificar a história natural das doenças alérgicas, e caracteriza o estado da arte na área de Alergia e Imunologia. Esta estratégia terapêutica de imunomodulação é capaz de promover a remissão e controle das doenças alérgicas por períodos prolongados, mesmo após o seu término. Existem poucos dados em relação ao emprego da ITA em pacientes vacinados contra COVID-19, e até o momento não há um posicionamento oficial das sociedades internacionais da área de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica. Este documento tem como objetivo estabelecer recomendações práticas para o manejo da ITA em pacientes que receberam a vacina contra COVID-19. Os fenômenos imunológicos envolvidos na imunoprofilaxia vacinal e no mecanismo de ação da ITA foram comparados, proporcionando o estabelecimento de recomendações precisas.

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a serious challenge for all medical specialties. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is considered the only therapeutic procedure capable of modifying the natural history of allergic diseases and characterizes the state of the art in the field of allergy and immunology. This therapeutic strategy of immunomodulation is able to promote remission and control of allergic diseases for prolonged periods, even after cessation. There are few data regarding use of AIT in patients vaccinated against COVID-19 and, to date, there is no official position statement published by international allergy and clinical immunology societies. This document aims to establish practical recommendations for the management of AIT in patients who have received the COVID-19 vaccine. The immunological mechanisms involved in immunoprophylaxis with vaccines and the mechanism of action of AIT have been compared to provide a solid basis for establishing precise recommendations.

Immunophenotypical Characterization of a Brazilian POIS (Post-Orgasmic Illness Syndrome) Patient: Adding More Pieces to Puzzle.

Post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a rare condition characterized by post-ejaculatory symptoms. Here is reported the first Brazilian POIS patient. Immunological investigation did not confirm the previous hypothesis of a hypersensitivity reaction. Cell immunophenotyping comparing healthy individuals produced evidence of abnormalities not associated to clinical manifestations. The patient was submitted to specific immunotherapy with transient clinical response and was referred to a psychologist but did not demonstrate clinical improvement of symptoms. Therefore, etiology of POIS remains unclear.

Increased gene expression of inflammatory markers in nasal turbinate of patients with persistent allergic rhinitis and chronic obstruction.

PURPOSE: The pathogenesis of persistent allergic rhinitis with chronic and refractory nasal obstruction is still unknown. Inflammation and tissue remodeling are known to play a role, but this has not been studied thoroughly. The purpose of this study is to identify the profile of gene expression of inflammatory and remodeling markers in nasal mucosa of patients with PAR and chronic obstruction. METHODS: After informed consent, we obtained nasal mucosa tissue from five aeroallergen-sensitized PAR patients undergoing anterior turbinectomy, and control non-sensitized individuals undergoing cerebrospinal fluid fistula repair or rhinoplasty. We assessed the expression of 34 genes related to inflammation and tissue remodeling using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to quantify each mRNA. RESULTS: IL-4 mRNA was upregulated in nasal mucosa of all five patients; CCR3, CCR8 and Eotaxin-2 were upregulated in four out of five patient samples; while IL-5 and IL-13 were upregulated in two of them. TGF-ß1 was not upregulated in PAR samples. mRNA from metalloproteinases MMP-7, MMP13 and MMP15 were upregulated in three out of five samples. Our results indicate a typical mRNA expression profile of the infiltrating inflammatory Th2 cells and eosinophils, combined with altered gene expression of remodeling-related proteins in stromal cells from the mucosa. CONCLUSION: Prolonged allergen challenge can lead to persistent upregulation of genes for inflammatory mediators such as IL-4 Th2/eosinophil cytokines, chemokines and receptors, which may play an important role in maintaining PAR with chronic nasal obstruction. Our findings may have therapeutic implications, including the use of anti-IL4, -CCR3 or -MMP therapy to ameliorate the condition.

Cashew Tree Pollen: An Unknown Source of IgE-Reactive Molecules.

Pollinosis is sub-diagnosed and rarely studied in tropical countries. Cashew tree pollen has been reported as an allergen source although the knowledge of its immunoglobulin E (IgE)-reactive molecules is lacking. Therefore, this work aimed to identify IgE-reactive molecules and provide a proteomic profile of this pollen. From the 830 proteins identified by shotgun analysis, 163 were annotated to gene ontology, and a list of 39 proteins filtered for high confidence was submitted to the Allfam database where nine were assigned to allergenic families. Thus, 12 patients from the northeast of Brazil with persistent allergic rhinitis and aggravation of symptoms during cashew flowering season were selected. Using a 2D-based approach, we identified 20 IgE-reactive proteins, four already recognized as allergens, including a homolog of the birch isoflavone-reductase (Bet v 6). IgE-reactivity against the extract in native form was confirmed for five patients in ELISA, with three being positive for Bet v 6. Herein, we present a group of patients with rhinitis exposed to cashew tree pollen with the first description of IgE-binding proteins and a proteomic profile of the whole pollen. Cashew tree pollen is considered an important trigger of rhinitis symptoms in clinical practice in the northeast of Brazil, and the elucidation of its allergenic molecules can improve the diagnostics and treatment for allergic patients.

Anaphylaxis triggered by prick test with latex extract: a case report.

CONTEXT: Adverse reactions associated with prick tests are rare but may be present as serious systemic reactions. CASE REPORT: A 38-year-old female nursing technician complained of three episodes of anaphylaxis in one year, all in the workplace. To investigate latex allergy, the patient underwent the prick test with latex, and immediately developed a rash, itchy skin, hoarseness, dyspnea and dry cough. Her condition improved promptly after appropriate measures were established for controlling her anaphylaxis. CONCLUSION: The skin test must be performed under medical supervision, since complications that can lead to life-threatening reactions, if support measures are not readily implemented, have been attributed to this test.

Endomiocardite de Loeffler ­ manifestação cardíaca da síndrome hipereosinofílica: relato de caso / Loeffler's endomyocarditis ­ cardiac manifestation of hypereosinophilic syndrome: case report'

Introdução: A síndrome hipereosinofílica é caracterizada por uma produção aumentada e contínua de eosinófilos e pode levar a lesões teciduais em múltiplos órgãos, como consequência da infiltração eosinofílica. Os pacientes apresentam eosinofilia absoluta no sangue periférico (> 1.500 eosinófilos/mm3) sem uma causa primária de eosinofilia. A manifestação cardíaca desta síndrome geralmente se apresenta como endomiocardite de Loeffler, que constitui uma miocardiopatia restritiva primária resultante da infiltração de eosinófilos no tecido cardíaco. Descrição do caso: Relatamos o caso raro de uma paciente de 64 anos com eosinofilia a esclarecer e comprometimento cardíaco, que teve o diagnóstico estabelecido a partir de exames de imagem. Comentários: Enfatizamos os aspectos clínicos e evolutivos, ressaltando as dificuldades diagnósticas e a importância da investigação de eosinofilias persistentes sem causa aparente, uma vez que o diagnóstico e tratamento precoce podem proporcionar melhores taxas de sobrevida e prognóstico nestes pacientes.

Introduction: The hypereosinophilic syndrome is characterized by an increased, continuous production of eosinophils, and it may lead to tissue damage in multiple organs as a consequence of eosinophilic infiltration. Patients with this syndrome present absolute eosinophil count > 1,500 eosinophils/mm3 in the peripheral blood without a primary cause for eosinophilia. The cardiac manifestation of this syndrome usually presents as Loeffler's endomyocarditis, a primary restrictive cardiomyopathy resulting from the infiltration of eosinophils into cardiac tissue. Case description: We report the rare case of a 64-year-old woman with eosinophilia and cardiac involvement, who had the diagnosis established based on imaging tests. Comments: We emphasize the clinical and evolutionary aspects of the condition, highlighting the diagnostic difficulties and the importance of investigating persistent eosinophilia without an apparent cause, as early diagnosis and treatment can provide better survival rates and improved prognosis in these patients.

Doença alérgica ocupacional: aspectos socioepidemiológicos em ambulatório especializado na cidade de São Paulo / Occupational allergic disease: socio-epidemiological aspects from a specialized outpatient clinic at the city of Sao Paulo

Introdução: Doença ocupacional envolvendo o sistema imunológico é considerada doença alérgica ocupacional (DAO). Das doenças ocupacionais, 15% são alérgicas. As consequências sociais do diagnóstico de DAO são importantes para o trabalhador e empregador. Objetivos: Descrever características demográficas e clínicas dos pacientes estudados com DAO e seus desfechos sociais. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo dos prontuários de pacientes do ambulatório de alergia ocupacional de hospital universitário em São Paulo, com diagnóstico de DAO. Resultados: 72 pacientes apresentaram DAO, com idades entre 21 e 89 anos; 52% do sexo masculino. Antecedentes atópicos foram descritos em 35% dos pacientes. A maioria dos pacientes trabalhava nas áreas de indústria química (17%), limpeza (15%), construção civil (11%) e saúde (8%). Rinite ocupacional foi vista em 26% dos pacientes; asma relacionada ao trabalho, em 18%; asma e rinite, em 25%; dermatite de contato alérgica, em 13%. Sobre o desfecho social, 36 (50%) mantiveram-se em seus cargos, 19 (26%) mudaram de função, 7 (10%) mudaram de área, 7 (10%) foram afastados e 3 (4%) se aposentaram. Conclusões: Na casuística estudada, a DAO prevaleceu no sexo masculino, em faixa etária condizente com faixa trabalhadora; com maior número de casos de rinite ocupacional. Metade dos pacientes continuou exercendo a mesma função mesmo após o diagnóstico.

Background: Occupational diseases involving the immune system are considered as occupational allergic diseases (OAD); 15% of occupational diseases are allergic. The social consequences of OAD are significant for both workers and employers. Objectives: To describe demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with OAD and their social outcomes. Methods: Descriptive and retrospective study of the medical records of patients diagnosed with OAD and cared at the occupational allergy clinic of a university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Results: A total of 72 patients exhibited OAD, with age from 21 to 89 years old; 52% were male. Atopic antecedents were described for 35% of patients. Most patients worked in the chemical industry (17%), cleaning (15%), construction (11%) and health (8%). Occupational rhinitis was found in 26% of the patients, work-related asthma in 18%, asthma and rhinitis in 25%, and allergic contact dermatitis in 13%. In regard to the social outcomes, 36 (50%) remained in their job, 19 (26%) changed function, 7 (10%) changed work area, 7 (10%) were fired and 3 (4%) retired. Conclusions: In the present study, OAD prevailed in males and the economically active age; cases of occupational rhinitis were the most frequent. Half of the employees remained in the same function even after diagnosis.

Sensitization to cat allergen and its association with respiratory allergies: cross-sectional study.

Cats are a significant source of allergens that contribute towards worsening of allergic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between sensitization to cat allergens and allergic respiratory diseases.This was an observational retrospective study based on the skin pricktests results of patients at a tertiary-level hospital in São Paulo. A total of 1,985 test results were assessed. The prevalence of sensitization to cat allergen was 20% (399 patients). Our data indicated that in this population of atopic patients, a positive skin prick test result for cat allergen was not associated significantly with a diagnosis of respiratory allergy.

Sensitization to cat allergen and its association with respiratory allergies: cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Cats are a significant source of allergens that contribute towards worsening of allergic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between sensitization to cat allergens and allergic respiratory diseases.This was an observational retrospective study based on the skin pricktests results of patients at a tertiary-level hospital in São Paulo. A total of 1,985 test results were assessed. The prevalence of sensitization to cat allergen was 20% (399 patients). Our data indicated that in this population of atopic patients, a positive skin prick test result for cat allergen was not associated significantly with a diagnosis of respiratory allergy.

Reações adversas locais e sistêmicas à imunoterapia alérgeno-específica para ácaros em pacientes de ambulatório especializado de Hospital Universitário em São Paulo / Local and systemic adverse reactions to allergen-specific immunotherapy for mites among patients seen at a university hospital's specialty outpatient clinic in São Paulo

Objetivo: Relatar e classificar as reações adversas à imunoterapia subcutânea (ITSC) com extratos de ácaros no tratamento de alergias. Método: Foram incluídos 38 pacientes que receberam ITSC com extratos de Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) isolado ou associado a Blomia tropicalis (Blo t). As reações adversas sistêmicas que ocorreram durante o tratamento foram registradas e classificadas de acordo com a WAO ­ World Allergy Organization. Também foram registrados o tratamento instituído e a evolução do quadro. Resultados: A média de idade dos pacientes do estudo foi 36 anos. Foram administradas 1.127 doses de ITSC com extrato de Der p. Destas, 87,3% (984) provocaram reação. De acordo com a classificação proposta pela WAO, 35,49% das reações foram Grau 1; 46,85% Grau 2; e 17,6% Grau 3. O tratamento utilizado foi: anti-histamínico em 81,3% das reações, corticosteroide em 81,3%, e beta-agonista inalatório em 70% dos casos. A adrenalina foi administrada em 41% das reações. No grupo que recebeu extrato associado de Der p e Blo t foram administradas 435 doses, das quais 155 (37,47%) resultaram em reações, sendo 78% de Grau 1, e 21,9% de Grau 2. O tratamento utilizado foi: anti-histamínico em 77,2% das reações, corticosteroide em 77,2% e beta-agonista inalatório em 58% dos casos. Conclusão: Na população estudada, as reações sistêmicas para Der p de acordo com a classificação da WAO, foram na sua maioria reações Grau 2. Já na imunoterapia para Der p e Blo t associados, as reações de Grau 1 prevaleceram. Embora seja um tratamento seguro, a imunoterapia pode levar ao aparecimento de reações sistêmicas, e deve ser realizada pelo médico especialista, em ambiente adequado e equipado para tratamento de reações sistêmicas.

Objective: To report and classify adverse reactions to subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) to house dust mites in the treatment of allergies. Method: We included 38 patients undergoing treatment with SCIT using Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) extracts isolated or combined with Blomia tropicalis (Blo t). Systemic adverse reactions to SCIT were reported and classified according to World Allergy Organization (WAO) criteria. Treatment details and reaction evolution were also recorded. Results: Mean age of patients was 36 years. A total of 1,127 doses of SCIT with Der p extract were administered. Of these, 87.3% (984) caused reactions. The classification of reactions according to WAO criteria was as follows: 35.49% Grade 1, 46.85% Grade 2, 17.6% Grade 3. Treatment consisted of antihistamine in 81.3% of the cases, corticosteroid in 81.3%, and inhaled beta-agonist in 70%. Epinephrine was used in 41% of the reactions. In the group that received Der p and Blo t extracts combined, 435 doses were administered, of which 155 (37.47%) resulted in reactions: 78% Grade 1 and 21.9% Grade 2. Treatment consisted of antihistamine in 77.2% of the reactions, corticosteroids in 77.2%, and inhaled beta-agonist in 58%. Conclusion: In the studied population, systemic reactions to Der p were mostly Grade 2 according to the WAO classification. Conversely, reactions to SCIT with Der p and Blo t extracts combined were mostly Grade 1. Even though immunotherapy is considered a safe therapy, it may cause systemic adverse reactions, and should therefore be performed by a specialist physician in an adequate, well-equipped setting for the treatment of systemic reactions.

Perfil clínico da rinite alérgica no idoso / Clinical profile of elderly patients with allergic rhinitis

Introdução: A rinite alérgica é uma doença de grande prevalência em todo o mundo, acometendo 15 a 42% da população geral, e 3 a 12% dos idosos. Acredita-se ser uma doença subdiagnosticada nesta população, porque algumas doenças frequentes nos idosos podem confundir o diagnóstico de doenças alérgicas. Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil clínico dos idosos com rinite alérgica atendidos no serviço de imunologia clínica e alergia de um hospital terciário de São Paulo. Avaliar também a sensibilização a aeroalérgenos, presença de asma alérgica e outras comorbidades. Métodos: Foram selecionados 104 pacientes maiores de 60 anos, diagnosticados com rinite alérgica e não alérgica. Esses pacientes foram comparados quanto à presença de asma e outras doenças concomitantes, sensibilização a aeroalérgenos e uso de medicamentos. Resultados: Dentre os pacientes com rinite alérgica, identificamos predomínio de rinite persistente moderada, sendo a asma o principal diagnóstico associado à rinite. Dentre as demais comorbidades observadas, os idosos tinham doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC), hipertensão arterial sistêmica e diabetes, mas não foram encontradas associações significativas entre a presença destas comorbidades e a rinite. Detectamos 71,9% de sensibilidade entre os idosos com rinite alérgica, e verificamos associação significativa com relação a IgE específica in vitro e ocorrência de sintomas. Conclusão: Estudos com a população idosa são necessários para melhor conhecimento da rinite nesta população, suas necessidades e possíveis ações preventivas.

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis is a highly prevalent disease worldwide, affecting 15 to 42% of the general population and 3 to 12% of the elderly. The condition is believed to be underdiagnosed in the elderly population, because other pathologies commonly present in this population may mask the diagnosis of allergic diseases. Objective: To evaluate the clinical profile of elderly patients with allergic rhinitis treated at the immunology and allergy service of a tertiary hospital of São Paulo. Sensitization to aeroallergens, presence of allergic asthma, and other comorbidities were also assessed. Methods: We selected 104 patients older than 60 years diagnosed with allergic and nonallergic rhinitis. These patients were compared for the presence of asthma and other concomitant diseases, sensitization to aeroallergens and use of medications. Results: Among the patients with allergic rhinitis, we identified a predominance of moderate persistent rhinitis; asthma was the main diagnosis associated with rhinitis. Other comorbidities included chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), systemic arterial hypertension and diabetes, but no significant associations were found between these comorbidities and rhinitis. We detected 71.9% of sensitivity among the elderly with allergic rhinitis, and a significant association was found between in vitro assays for specific IgE and the occurrence of symptoms. Conclusion: Studies with the elderly are necessary to improve our understanding of the occurrence of rhinitis in this population, patient needs and possible preventive actions.

Occupational allergic disease: socio-epidemiological aspects from a specialized outpatient clinic in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Occupational diseases involving the immune system are considered to be occupational allergic diseases (OAD); 15% of occupational diseases are allergic. The social consequences of OAD are significant for both workers and employers. OBJECTIVES: To describe demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with OAD and their social outcomes. METHODS: Descriptive and retrospective study of the medical records of patients diagnosed with OAD cared at the occupational allergy clinic of a university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 72 patients exhibited OAD, with age 21 to 89 years old; 52% were male. Atopic antecedents were described for 35% of patients. Most patients worked in the chemical industry (17%), cleaning (15%), construction (11%) and health care (8%). Occupational rhinitis was found in 26% of the patients, work-related asthma in 18%, asthma and rhinitis in 25%, and allergic contact dermatitis in 13%. In regard to the social outcomes, 36 (50%) workers remained in their jobs, 19 (26%) changed function, 7 (10%) changed occupation, 7 (10%) were fired and 3 (4%) retired. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, OAD prevailed among males and within the economically active age; cases of occupational rhinitis were the most frequent. Half of the employees remained in the same job position even after diagnosis.

INTRODUÇÃO: Doença ocupacional envolvendo o sistema imunológico é considerada doença alérgica ocupacional (DAO). Das doenças ocupacionais, 15% são alérgicas. As consequências sociais do diagnóstico de DAO são importantes para o trabalhador e empregador. OBJETIVOS: Descrever características demográficas e clínicas dos pacientes estudados com DAO e seus desfechos sociais. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo dos prontuários de pacientes do ambulatório de alergia ocupacional de hospital universitário em São Paulo, com diagnóstico de DAO. RESULTADOS: 72 pacientes apresentaram DAO, com idades entre 21 e 89 anos; 52% do sexo masculino. Antecedentes atópicos foram descritos em 35% dos pacientes. A maioria dos pacientes trabalhava nas áreas de indústria química (17%), limpeza (15%), construção civil (11%) e saúde (8%). Rinite ocupacional foi vista em 26% dos pacientes; asma relacionada ao trabalho, em 18%; asma e rinite, em 25%; dermatite de contato alérgica, em 13%. Sobre o desfecho social, 36 (50%) mantiveram-se em seus cargos, 19 (26%) mudaram de função, 7 (10%) mudaram de área, 7 (10%) foram afastados e 3 (4%) se aposentaram. CONCLUSÕES: Na casuística estudada, a DAO prevaleceu no sexo masculino, em faixa etária condizente com faixa trabalhadora; com maior número de casos de rinite ocupacional. Metade dos pacientes continuou exercendo a mesma função mesmo após o diagnóstico.