Dog Immunotherapy Practices among Allergists

Abstract

Background: Pet allergens are significant triggers of both allergic rhinitis and asthma. Objective: It is important to know the practice patterns of allergists treating dog sensitized patients. Methods: An electronic survey was sent to practicing allergists of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI). Participants were questioned about their criteria for prescribing dog immunotherapy for patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma. The allergists were asked about the specific type of immunotherapy prescribed, and their opinion regarding the efficacy of dog immunotherapy. Dog allergen reduction strategies were also queried. Results: 2431 electronic letters were successfully sent, and 537 allergists responded to the survey. The majority of the allergists felt that dog immunotherapy demonstrated some relief of symptoms for allergic rhinitis (92%) and asthma (90%) but that it was not as effective as avoidance of dogs. Most allergists would prescribe dog immunotherapy for veterinarians and patients who were unable or unwilling to remove their dog from the home. Ninety-three percent of respondents recommended removal of the dog from the home, and the majority of allergists (90%) used dog hair and dander for immunotherapy. Common allergen reduction strategies recommended by practicing allergists included restriction of the dog to certain areas of the home (94%), washing of the dog (73%), HEPA filtration (71%), and a HEPA vacuum (46%). Conclusions: Our survey results indicate that most allergists believe that dog immunotherapy relieves some symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma but that it is not as effective as avoidance of dogs. The opinions or assertions herein are the private views of the authors and are not to be construed as reflecting the views of the Department of the Air Force or the Department of Defense.