Quelle place pour la désensibilisation?

Allergenic immunotherapy or desensitisation has been practised for over a century. It is mainly used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and, for this indication, its efficacy has been demonstrated satisfactorily. Its place in the treatment of asthma is still disputed despite numerous clinical trials. Today, the evolution of this technique through a deeper understanding of of its mechanisms and appropriate modification of the routes of administration has allowed it to be used in an effective manner, particularly for the symptoms of asthma, diminution of bronchial hyperreactivity and thus leading to an improvement in quality of life. In addition, after several years of use, the sub-lingual route has proved to be safe for the patient. It allows, therfore, a global management of the asthmatic patient by treating the upper airway rhinitis and the asthma of the lower airways at the same time.