OVERVIEW OF THE IMMUNOTHERAPEUTIC APPROACH IN PATIENTS WITH ALLERGIC RHINITIS

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis, characterized by nasal inflammation due to exposure to allergens, affects the quality of life of patients. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) remains the cornerstone for the treatment of respiratory allergies, offering long-term symptom relief, disease modification, and prevention of disease progression. The aim of this article is to review immunotherapeutic options for treating allergic rhinitis. A literature review was performed in major medical databases using the descriptors “allergic rhinitis” and “immunotherapy” using the Boolean operator “AND”. All articles published between 2024-2025 were included in the primary analysis. AIT, especially the subcutaneous (SCIT) and sublingual (SLIT) forms, were found to be effective in reducing symptoms and preventing progression to asthma. SCIT is the traditional form, while the newer SLIT offers greater convenience and lower risk of adverse effects. New approaches, such as recombinant allergens, biologic therapies, and adjuvants, are being investigated to enhance the efficacy of AIT. The combination of AIT with biologic therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies, has shown promising results, improving efficacy and safety, especially in severe cases. Although AIT is an established option, continued research into new forms of immunotherapy is essential to improve efficacy and therapeutic outcomes.