Oral hyposensitization in allergic contact dermatitis.
In this review, the concepts of hyposensitization, tolerance and hardening are defined. Studies concerning hyposensitization by different routes of allergen administration are mentioned. The most important studies in humans, as well as in experimental animals, regarding oral hyposensitization are then gone into more thoroughly. The possible mechanisms of hyposensitization are discussed. It is concluded that oral hyposensitization in humans is indeed possible. Furthermore, the reaction is antigen-specific, diminishes quickly, and it is probably the dose administered at a certain moment rather than the total amount of allergens ingested that is crucial when receiving hyposensitization. However, further performed studies do not justify the routine use of oral hyposensitization.
Sjövall
P
P
Department of Dermatology, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
Christensen
O B
OB
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000485:Allergens / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000818:Animals; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000628:therapy*; D003888:Desensitization, Immunologic / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans
D000485:Allergens