Abstract
Background. Despite the presence of robust evidence, very
sparse data are available on the efficacy of allergen immunotherapy
(AIT) on selected patients in real-life . Moreover, the obtained
data does not ever fit with the general population; thus, the
translation and the use of data obtained from randomized clinical trials
(RCTs) in real-practice can be questionable. Accordingly, we
aimed to evaluate in real-life efficacy and perceived
satisfaction of 3-year sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in a pediatric
population with with allergic rhinitis and/or asthma.
Methods. A pilot, monocenter, retrospective
cohort, real-life study was performed. 153 children who fulfilled
the criteria for allergic rhinitis and asthma and mono- or
poly-sensitized were enrolled. A standardized questionnaire on perceived
efficacy, rescue medication, disease control, number of exacerbations,
quality of life, and perceived satisfaction was administered to each
patient.
Results. 70 patients (49 males, 21 females; mean age, 14.3±1.9
years) were included in the final analysis. All 70 patients received
SLIT for up to three years, with 100% treatment adherence throughout
the study duration. Significant improvement in symptoms and quality of
life was reported (p<0.01). A significant decrease in disease
severity, rescue medication use, and sleep disturbances was reported
(p<0.01). A significant improvement was also recorded in
school performance (p<0.01). 60/70 (85.7%) of all
enrolled patients declared themselves very satisfied , 6/70
(8.57%) much satisfied , and 4/60 (5.71%) satisfied .
Conclusions. We firstly showed the efficacy and perceived
satisfaction of 3-year SLIT in a paediatric population, with 100%
treatment adherence throughout the study duration, in real-life.
Keywords: adherence; children; efficacy; follow-up; perceived
satisfaction; real-life study; SLIT.