Abstract:
Background: Treatment of allergic rhinitis
with subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy is effective in
terms of reductions in symptoms and seasonal use of
reliever medication. Its effect on quality of life (QoL),
reflecting the impact of symptoms on work/school
performance and leisure activities is, however,
important and often overlooked.
Aims of the study: To assess effect on QoL of
specific immunotherapy with two doses of Alutard
SQ((R))Phleum pratense in patients with moderately to
severe seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
inadequately controlled by standard drug therapy.
Methods: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled
study of 410 patients with seasonal allergic
rhinoconjunctivitis. Participants were randomized (2 : 1
: 1) to receive Alutard SQ((R))P. pratense (ALK-Abelló)
at maintenance doses of 100 000 SQ-U (203 subjects), 10
000 SQ-U (104 subjects) or placebo (103 subjects) given
by subcutaneous injections. The groups were well matched
for demographics and baseline symptoms. Quality of life
was assessed using the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of
Life Questionnaire which covers seven domains of health
before and in the peak of the pollen season.
Results: While all domain scores were
significantly improved when comparing 100 000 SQ-U with
placebo, two domain scores were significantly improved
when comparing 10 000 SQ-U with placebo. When comparing
100 000 SQ-U with 10 000 SQ-U, four domain scores were
significantly improved.
Conclusion: Treatment with Alutard SQ((R))
significantly improved the seasonal QoL of patients
suffering from allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. The
improvement was more pronounced and wider ranging in
patients who received the higher 100 000 SQ-U
maintenance dose.
