Sublingual immunotherapy with allergens: current situation

Abstract

Objective: In the last two decades, sublingual immunotherapy with allergens (SLIT) has been shown as a effective and safe treatment in allergic respiratory disease. The most relevant topics in connection with this therapy will be summarized, especially from a paediatric point of view.
Development: Different studies have shown that SLIT has an adequate tolerance profile both in children and adults. Regarding to efficacy of this kind of treatment, several double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have been carried out both in rhinitis and asthma. Most of these studies have been analyzed in different meta-analysis proving the capacity of SLIT in reduction of symptoms and medication score. On the other hand, SLIT seems to be a good alternative in less prevalent diseases as latex or food allergy. SLIT is able to prevent the onset of asthma in children with allergic rhinitis, as well as to maintain the efficacy reached at the end of treatment once the treatment has been stopped.
Conclusions: Despite of further studies are necessary, SLIT is a good alternative in the treatment of allergic respiratorydisease, both in children and adults, reducing severity and frequency of symptoms and the need for rescue medication.