Immunotherapy

Question 1

What is the mechanism of immunotherapy?

Answer 1

• Increase production of IgG

- Alter IgE synthesis and decrease reactivity of mast cells and basophils contributing to the allergic response

Question 2

What are the indications for immunotherapy?

Answer 2

• Inability to avoid allergens
• Failure of medications
• Intolerable side-effects of medication
• evidence of IgE mediated allergic disease diagnosed by skin test or RAST blood test
• Availability of allergen extracts
• Patient ability to comply with the schedule
• absence of contraindications

Question 3

What are the contraindications for immunotherapy?

Answer 3

• Compromised lung function
• Unstable Asthma
• Medications
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Failure of a Major Organ System
• Mentally/Physically unable to communicate
• Anticipated Pregnancy

Question 4

How long must the patient wait once they receive immunotherapy?

Answer 4

30 minutes

Question 5

What are the three types of reactions for immunotherapy?

Answer 5

• Vasovagal
• Local Reactions
• Anaphylactic Reactions

Question 6

What is the proper treatment for Anaphylaxis?

Answer 6

• Epinephrine
• Oxygen
• Notify Physician

Question 7

What are the two types of immunotherapy?

Answer 7

• Aerollergen

- Venom

Question 8

Aeroallergen Prescription form?

Answer 8

SF 559

Question 9

Venom Prescription Form?

Answer 9

DD 2482

Question 10

What is required for each SF 559 to be valid?

Answer 10

Providers Signature

Question 11

Which Immunotherapy prescription is tailored to the individual?

Answer 11

Aeroallergen SF 559

Question 12

What three basic rules do you take into consideration for reductions of areoallergen AIT? (in order)

Answer 12

• Reaction
• Time
• Refill

Question 13

Which AIT prescription goes by weeks and not days?

Answer 13

Venom AIT

Question 14

After making reductions the desired dose is not found on the schedule, what dose is going to be administered?

Answer 14

You will round DOWN to the closest dose and administer that dose.

Question 15

Clinical studies have found that effective AIT is _________ and ___________ in an “allergic” patient.

Answer 15

• Dose Dependent

- Allergen Specific

Question 16

Immunotherapy may ________ airway hyperactivity if maintained for a few years or more, but may also ___________ it with in the first year of therapy.

Answer 16

• Reduce

- Increase

Question 17

Which two molds, have studies shown the only clinical benefit for immunotherapy patients?

Answer 17

• Alterneoria

- Cladosporium

Question 18

The only absolute indication for immmunotherapy is in patient who has had severe IgE mediated anaphylactic reactions to ___________ and _______________.

Answer 18

• Venom Stings

- Those likely to be stung again

Question 19

An uncomplicated typical course of allergy immunotherapy should last for how long at maintenance dose?

Answer 19

3-5 years

Question 20

The maximum dose that the patient can be given without excessive local reactions or anaphylaxis; highest tolerated dose.

Answer 20

Maintenance Dose