ABSTRACT
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Several studies have confirmed the impact of confinement on the population, resulting in disruption of care, somatic and psychological effects. Our study looks at adverse effects and problems of adherence to oral immunotherapy therapy (OIT) during this period. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 132 patients, mostly children (95%), with an atopic history (60%) followed for an OIT were included in 3 allergology centers in Île-de-France, during the period of confinement from 03/16 to 05/11/20. The main food allergens used for OIT were peanut (38%), cow's milk (24%), hazelnut (14%), egg (9%), cashew nut and pistachio nut (8%). RESULTS: Adverse effects were found in 13 patients or 10% of the cases. These reactions were mainly grade 1 and 2 according to the Ring and Messmer classification. Three patients had grade 3 reactions and six patients used epinephrine at home. Adherence was correct in 81% of cases with no omissions. Three patients increased their daily dose without medical advice. No significant difference was found in the subgroup analysis comparing age-matched children followed up in OIT in 2019 and 2020 over the same period in the same hospital. CONCLUSION: There was no increase in adverse events in OIT during the confinement period. Therapeutic education during OIT is paramount and helps to reduce the occurrence of adverse events.
