The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), once native only to parts of South America¹ and historically contained to the southeastern United States, is on the move. Rising temperatures, increased rainfall, and soil transport through landscaping and agriculture have allowed this aggressive species to expand far beyond its original range. For allergy specialists, this migration signals more than an ecological concern, it is an emerging medical threat that demands attention.

As fire ants spread into new territories, they bring potent venom with them capable of inducing severe allergic reactions in a population who has never encountered fire ants before. Allergists across the country must prepare for this shifting landscape by understanding the clinical risks and ensuring their patients are protected.

However, recent climate data and ecological studies show that fire ants are expanding northward and westward. Research from the USDA Agricultural Research Service estimates that fire ants could spread into larger portions of the Mid-Atlantic, the lower Midwest, the Southwest, and even parts of California, Arizona, and Oregon if warming trends continue.²

This means that areas previously considered safe from fire ant infestations are now seeing reports of colonies and stings.³ For allergists in these states, fire ant sensitization and anaphylaxis are becoming a new clinical reality.

While most people experience localized pain, swelling, pustule formation, a significant subset may develop systemic reactions. These reactions range from generalized hives and angioedema to full-blown anaphylaxis with hypotension, airway compromise, and cardiovascular collapse.

Studies show that up to 20% of fire ant stings result in large local reactions, and approximately 0.5% – 2% of stung individuals may experience systemic allergic reactions. In highly colonized regions, 8.5% – 51% of residents may be stung each year, putting a sizable population at risk.⁵

With fire ants spreading to new states, allergists must now consider fire ant allergy in patients presenting with systemic reactions to insect stings in general, especially in areas where fire ants were previously non-endemic.

Allergy immunotherapy for fire ant venom is highly effective in preventing systemic reactions at a similar rate to venom immunotherapy for flying Hymenoptera venom.⁷

• Fire ant VIT uses whole-body extract of Solenopsis invicta to produce the extract.
• The standards course includes build-up injections followed by maintenance injections typically given every 4 weeks.
• Patients often remain in the maintenance phase of immunotherapy for 3 to 5 years.
• Even though skin test often remain positive, clinical protection is maintained long after desensitization.⁷

When it comes to venom immunotherapy, product quality and reliability matter. HollisterStier Allergy is a leading US manufacturer of FDA-approved allergenic extracts, including those used for fire ant venom immunotherapy.

• High-quality extracts manufactured to rigorous standards for purity and potency.
• Consitency and reliability ensures each vial provides reproducible clinical performance.
• Responsive customer support with a dedicated team that understands the needs of allergists.
• Secure supply chain where we harvest and produce our extracts in house, minimizing disruptions, even during periods of increased demand.

As fire ant migration introduces venom allergy risk to new patient populations, having a dependable source of fire ant extract is crucial. Protect your patients with HollisterStier Allergy, no matter where fire ants move next.

As ecological patterns change and insect species migrate, allergists must adapt. Fire ant allergies are no longer region specific, the clinical burden is shifting to allergists in new states and regions and will continue to do so as climate change progresses.

Here’s what you can do to best support your patients:

• Stay informed by monitoring entomological data and reports of fire ant spread in your region.
• Educate your team by training staff to recognize symptoms and risk factors for fire ant allergy.
• Stock the right extracts by ordering Solenopsis invicta venom immunotherapy from a trusted source like HollisterStier Allergy.
• Engage with your community and raise awareness with patients within your community about the rising risks of fire ant allergies.

The expansion of fire ants across the US is no longer a hypothetical, it’s happening now. With that expansion comes increased allergic risk, more anaphylactic events, and a need for proactive treatment planning.

Allergists must lead the response. By diagnosing early, educating patients, and administering effective immunotherapy using reliable extracts, we can dramatically reduce the burden of fire ant venom allergy.

Allergies are a growing public health concern as climate change impacts the start and length of allergy season, along with an increase in allergies among recent generations. However, not all individuals are affected equally. Research increasingly shows that social determinants of health, such as poverty, race, and access to healthcare, play a role in shaping allergy prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. This article explores how these factors intersect with allergies and highlights the need for equitable solutions to address disparities in allergy care.

Poverty is a powerful determinant of health, influencing everything from environmental exposures to access to adequate medical care. For people living in low-income communities, the risk of developing allergies is often heightened due to a combination of environmental, nutritional, and psychological factors.

Substandard housing conditions, which are more common in low-income areas, can increase exposure to allergens such as mold, dust mites, and cockroaches. These allergens are known triggers for asthma and other allergic conditions for both adults and children, and sometimes pets.

Households located in low-income areas have been linked to increased allergen exposure and sensitization, along with higher levels of asthma morbidity and mortality for children. Substandard housing can also be a prime breeding ground for mites, cockroaches, and mold due to excess moisture from lack of proper ventilation. Water leaks, exposure to endotoxins, and inadequate pest control create environments where allergies thrive. It is also common for low-income neighborhoods to be located near areas of large vehicle traffic, which can increase ambient particular matter and fuel fumes, exacerbating allergy and asthma symptoms.¹

Access to nutritious, diversified food is another critical factor influencing allergy risk. Low-income communities often face food insecurity, with limited access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foods that support immune health. A diet high in processed foods and low in essential nutrients can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to allergies and immune dysfunction.^2,3

Chronic stress, which is more prevalent in low-income populations⁴, can also contribute to allergic conditions. Stress has been shown to dysregulate the immune system, increasing inflammation and worsening conditions like asthma and eczema. It also plays a significant role in manifesting and treating allergic disease.⁵ This highlights the need for holistic approaches to allergy management that address both psychological and environmental factors.

Racial and ethnic minorities often face a disproportionate burden of allergic conditions, driven by a combination of genetic, environmental, and systemic factors. Understanding these disparities is essential for developing targeted interventions.

Research has shown that certain populations experience higher rates of asthma and food allergies compared to others. For example, some studies indicate that children from specific economic and racial back grounds are more likely to develop allergies, including food allergies. In a study conducted in 2020, Black children were found to have higher odds of allergies to shellfish and finfish, along with higher rates of asthma than White children from similar backgrounds.⁶ Higher prevalence of asthma has also been found in populations below the poverty threshold, along with more self-reported food allergies in ethnic minority groups.⁷ There has also been an increase in food allergies across the board, with a greater increase in allergies for non-Hispanic Black children.⁸

Implicit bias among healthcare providers can also contribute to disparities in allergy care. After compiling and analyzing 28 studies on implicit bias in the healthcare industry, researchers found evidence that minority patients are often undertreated or misdiagnosed due to unconscious biases. These unconscious biases can also negatively impact patient-provider interactions and treatment decisions. A specific example is that Black patients in the US are significantly more likely to be questioned about smoking than White patients. In four other studies, researchers found a significant correlation between high levels of pro-White implicit bias and treatment responses that favored those patients.¹¹

Addressing implicit bias through training and education is essential for ensuring equitable care for all patients, no matter their background.¹²

Where individuals live can also influence their allergy risk and access to care. Urban and rural environments present unique challenges that must be addressed to reduce disparities.

Urban areas, particularly low-income neighborhoods, are often hotspots for environmental allergens. Air pollution, traffic-related emissions, and high levels of indoor allergens are common in these settings. Urban air pollution exacerbates respiratory allergies and asthma, particularly in children. Addressing these environmental triggers requires targeted policies, such as improving housing quality and reducing air pollution.¹³

While urban areas may have higher levels of environmental allergens, rural areas often face a shortage of healthcare providers, including allergists. This lack of access to specialized care can delay diagnosis and treatment, preventing individuals from receiving the care they need. Children in rural areas are less likely to receive a timely, accurate diagnosis of food allergies compared to their urban counterparts. Expanding telehealth services and increasing the number of allergists in rural areas are potential solutions to this problem.¹⁴

Addressing the impact of poverty and race on allergies requires a multifaceted approach that includes policy changes, community-based interventions, and efforts to improve cultural competence in healthcare.

When discussing how to limit the impact of allergies on low-income and minority communities, it’s important to address the social determinants of health through policy changes that promote health equity. In a study conducted by two contributors at the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, researchers found that by ensuring individuals have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, disparities between populations can be reduced significantly.¹⁵

Community health initiatives that address housing quality, nutrition, and education about allergies and health management can also make a difference. Community-based asthma interventions have effectively reduced hospitalizations and improved the quality of life for children in low-income communities. Similar programs could be developed to assist other allergic conditions, such as food allergies and eczema.¹⁶

Lastly, training healthcare providers to recognize and confront racial and socioeconomic biases, while addressing disparities, is essential for ensuring equitable treatment. By fostering a healthcare system that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of all patients, we can create a more equitable future for allergy care.¹⁷

While the link between socioeconomic factors and allergy disparities is well-documented, many studies are qualitative, resulting in a notable gap in large-scale quantitative studies that measure how these variables impact allergy outcomes. A review published in 2019 highlights that much of the existing research relies on small cohorts or observational data due to a lack of comprehensive and conclusive research conducted on minority and low-income populations. As presented in this review, while Black and Latino populations make up 30% of the US population, they account for only 6% of all participants in federally funded clinical trials. This same study found that only 2% of government-funded cancer research has focused on minority health needs, and even though Black Americans are one-third more likely to have asthma and over three times more likely to die from complications compared to White Americans, only 5% of federally funded lung disease studies over the past 20 years have been focused on minority groups.¹⁸ This underscores the need for more awareness and understanding of these issues to support equitable care across all populations.

Socioeconomic and racial affiliation are powerful determinants of health that significantly impact allergy prevalence and treatment outcomes. From environmental exposures in low-income housing to systemic barriers in healthcare access, these factors create disparities that must be deal with through target interventions and policy changes. By raising awareness of these issues and advocating for equitable solutions, we can work toward a future where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy, allergy-free life.

From seasonal allergies to food sensitivities, the impact of allergic reactions can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective allergy treatment and skin testing remains one of the most reliable and widely used diagnostic tools. This article explores the importance of skin testing in allergy treatment, its benefits, and how it compares to other diagnostic methods.

Skin testing is a diagnostic procedure used to identify specific allergens that might trigger an allergic reaction in an individual. The test procedure involves exposing the skin to small amounts of suspected allergens and observing the reaction. There are two primary types of skin tests:

1. Skin Prick Test (SPT), also known as puncture or scratch tests: This is the most common form of skin testing. A small amount of allergen extract is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and then a tiny needle prick is made through the drop to allow the allergen to enter the skin. If the person is allergic, a small, raised bump (wheal) surrounded by redness (flare) will appear within 15 to 20 minutes. The ComforTen® and QuinTip® Skin Test Devices provided by HollisterStier Allergy are designed to encourage uniform skin testing results and allow readings of 3mm+ to read positive during an allergy test.¹ These two devices are also self-loading, innovating the traditional testing process by removing the need to place the extract directly on the skin.

2. Intradermal Test: This test involves injecting a small amount of allergen extract just beneath the skin’s surface. It is more sensitive than the skin prick test and is often used when the skin prick test results are inconclusive.

Allergic symptoms can often mimic other conditions, such as infections or autoimmune diseases. Skin testing helps differentiate between these conditions, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate treatment. Skin testing can help determine if allergies are a contributing factor to other conditions, as well.⁵

While there are other methods for diagnosing allergies, such as blood tests (IgE tests), skin testing offers several advantages:

While skin testing is highly effective, it is not without limitations. Some of these potential limitations include:

1. Medication Interference: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, can interfere with skin test results. Patients may need to stop taking these medications for a few days before the test to ensure accruate results.³

2. Skin Conditions: Patients with severe eczema or other skin conditions may not be suitable candidates for skin testing. In such cases, blood tests may be a better alternative.⁵

3. Risk of Severe Reactions: Although rare, there is a small risk of severe allergic reactions during skin testing. This is why skin tests should always be performed under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider who can manage any adverse reactions.²

Skin testing is an important tool when it comes to the diagnosis and management of allergies. Its accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness make it the preferred method for identifying specific allergens and developing personalized treatment plans. While it has some limitations, the benefits of skin testing far outweigh the drawbacks, making it an indispensable part of allergy care.

When utilizing innovative tools like the ComforTen® and QuinTip® Skin Test Devices, healthcare providers can achieve better health outcomes and improve the quality of life for those affected by allergies. Request a quote today to learn more about how HollisterStier Allergy elevates allergy care.

Allergies are caused by a immune system response to substances like pollen, pet dander, and certain foods. These responses can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening reactions. While allergies are common globally, the factors influencing their prevalence and intensity vary. In the US, a combination of genetics, environmental conditions, and lifestyle factors creates a unique environment when it comes to allergies.

Additionally, regional differences play a role in allergy severity and allergy type. Every region has allergies, but the triggers vary based on the environment, rather than the population. The only difference found between regions is that children in southern states aged one to five years old are more prone to allergies than their peers in other regions. The states with higher prevalence for young childhood allergies include: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.⁷

One of the most significant drivers of increasing allergy prevalence in the US is climate change. Rising temperatures extend pollen seasons which leads to higher pollen production. Ragweed, a notorious allergen, thrives under these conditions. Studies have shown that allergy seasons in the US have extended by 20 days or more in certain areas, intensifying allergy symptoms for millions of Americans.

• Hay fever: The US has a higher prevalence for hay fever compared to other countries, likely due to differences in climate and vegetation.
• Food allergies: Peanut allergies are notably more common in the US, possibly due to early exposure patterns and dietary habits.⁸

In contrast, countries in Asia often report lower rates of hay fever but higher rates of skin allergies, although this is changing along with the climate.⁹ These variations are influenced by genetics, diet, and environmental conditions.

The answer isn’t straightforward. Allergies in the US are influenced by a mix of genetic diversity, environmental factors, and societal behaviors that make them feel more severe or widespread. While the US faces unique challenges like high pollen counts and climate-driven changes, it also benefits from advanced healthcare, such as allergy immunotherapy.

Understanding the complexities of allergies is the first step towards better management. At HollisterStier Allergy, we are committed to elevating allergy care to empower allergists and ultimately benefit their patients. Request a quote today to see how we are supporting allergists and their patients here in the US.

The immune system is the body’s first line of defense, protecting us from infections, pathogens, and harmful invaders. However, sometimes the immune system overreacts or reacts inappropriately to harmless substances, such as allergens like pollen, dust, dander, or venom, which results in an allergic reaction. Shifts and changes in the immune system causes by genetic factors, environmental influences, and certain conditions can predispose someone to a potential allergic response that they may not have experienced previously.

At its core, the immune system is designed to identify and neutralize harmful antigens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It consists of various components, including white blood cells, antibodies, and a complex system of organs and proteins. When the immune system encounters a pathogen, they respond to try and eliminate the threat. The normal immune response is what keeps the body healthy and maintains homeostasis.¹

Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a typically harmless substance, like allergens, as a threat. The immune response involves the release of chemicals like histamine, leading to symptoms like itching, swelling sneezing, and more severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Simplistically, allergies are a case of the immune system being “overprotective”.

Environmental factors play an equally significant role in allergy development. The “hygiene hypothesis” suggests that living in overly clean environments can prevent the immune system from being exposed to a wide range of bacteria and viruses early in life. This lack of exposure may shift the immune system towards a more allergic (Th2) response, as it hasn’t learned to differentiate between harmful and harmless invaders.⁵

Pollution, urbanization, and climate change have also been linked to rising allergy rates, as they can affect how the immune system interacts with common allergens. For example, people living in urban areas may be exposed to higher levels of airborne pollutants, which can prime the immune system for allergic reactions. Similarly, climate change is causing longer pollen seasons and higher pollen counts, increasing exposure to allergens like grass and tree pollen.

This imbalance is linked to early childhood environments. According to the hygiene hypothesis, reduced exposure to infections in childhood can lead to an underdeveloped Th1 response and an overreactive Th2 resposne. This imbalance makes children more susceptible to developing allergies as they grow older.^5,9

Allergy immunotherapy is a treatment method that involves gradually exposing individuals to small amounts of an allergen over time to desensitize the immune system. This process reduces the severity of allergic reactions by training the immune system to recognize allergens as harmless. HollisterStier Allergy provides a variety of extracts to conduct allergy immunotherapy treatments in the clinical setting.

Regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can also support a balanced immune response. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods or exposure to chronic stress can exacerbate immune dysfunction and contribute to the development of allergies.

The immune system is a complex network that protects us from harm, but it’s not always perfect. Changes in the immune system, whether due to genetics, environmental factors, or health conditions, can tip the scales toward developing or experiencing allergies. Understanding the intricate relationship between immune shifts and allergies can empower people to manage and potentially prevent allergic reactions through treatments like immunotherapy.

Allergies of all kinds disrupt the lives of individuals worldwide and range in symptoms from mild discomfort to severe reactions. For those suffering from chronic and potentially life-threatening allergies, finding long-term relief can be challenging. While antihistamines and other medications may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause which results in an allergic reaction. This is why allergy immunotherapy is a game-changer in the treatment of allergies – it is the only treatment that not only alleviates symptoms, but also alters the way the immune system responds to allergens. ⁵

Allergy immunotherapy, which includes both subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), is a method of treatment that gradually desensitizes the immune system to specific allergens. Over time, this leads to a significant reduction or even complete elimination of allergic reactivity. (HollisterStier products have not been authorized by the FDA for SLIT route of administration. Please refer to the full prescribing information for HollisterStier products.)

To understand how allergy immunotherapy works, it’s essential to grasp what allergies are and how they affect the body. Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance such as pollen, dust mites or pet dander, as a threat. In response, the immune system produces antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE), which trigger the release of histamines and other biological chemicals, leading to the symptoms associated with allergies: sneezing, itching, swelling, and more.

Allergic reactions can vary in severity, ranging from mild seasonal allergies to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Common allergens include:

• Pollen
• Mold spores
• Pet dander
• Insect stings
• Certain foods (nuts, shellfish, dairy, etc.)

Alleriges can significantly impact quality of life, making daily activities uncomfortable or even dangerous for those with severe reactions.

The concept of allergy immunotherapy dates back to the early 20^th  century when Leonard Noon and John Freeman discovered that hay fever was caused by a sensitivity to grass pollen and that by introducing the same pollen in a distilled extract, patients would experience less severe symptoms. Today, immunotherapy is a well-established treatment used worldwide to manage a variety of allergies.¹

There are two main types of allergy immunotherapy: SCIT, commonly known as allergy shots, and SLIT, which involves placing drops or tablets under the tongue. Both methods aim to achieve the same goal, reducing the immune system’s overreaction to allergens, although they differ in their administration and treatment duration.

Allergy immunotherapy works by gradually exposing the immune system to increasing amounts of the allergen is allergic to, helping the body build tolerance over time. The treatment typically follows two phases⁵:

1. Desensitization (Build-Up) Phase: During this initial phase, the patient receives small doses of the allergen through a specific extract solution, either through injections or sublingual drops or tablets. These doses are gradually increased over several weeks or months, allowing the immune system to adapt without triggering a severe allergic reaction. The goal is to “train” the immune system to recognize the allergen as “harmless” so that an immune reaction is not triggered.
2. Maintenance Phase: Once the optimal dose is reached, the patient enters the maintenance phase, where the allergen extract dose remains consistent. By repeatedly exposing the body to the allergen, immunotherapy reduces the production of IgE antibodies and promotes the production of other antibodies, such as Immunoglobulin G (IcG), which block the allergen before it triggers an allergic response. Over time, this reprogramming of the immune system can lead to long-term tolerance, even after the treatment is ended.

As mentioned previously, there are two types of allergy immunotherapy, each with its unique approach and benefits:

• Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT):
  • Description and procedure: SCIT is the most common form of immunotherapy. It involves injecting small amounts of the allergen into the skin, usually in the upper arm. The injections start with a low dose and gradually increase over time.
  • Frequency and duration: SCIT typically requires weekly or bi-weekly visits to the allergist during the build-up phase, which lasts about 3-6 months. Once the maintenance dose is reached, injections are spaced out every 2-4 weeks for 3-5 years.
  • Benefits and potential side effects: SCIT is highly effective for a wide range of allergens including pollen, dust mites, and insect stings. Side effects are generally mild and may include redness or swelling at the injection site. Rarely, more severe reactions like anaphylaxis can occur, so treatments must be administered in a medical setting by a trained medical professional.
• Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)*:
  • Description and procedure: SLIT involves placing allergen drops or tablets under the tongue, where the allergen is taken up by the immune system.
  • Frequency and duration: SLIT requires daily administration, which can be done at home.  Like SCIT, the treatment typically lasts 3-5 and must be prescribed by a medical provider.
  • Benefits and potential side effects: SLIT is a convenient option for those who prefer not to undergo regular injections or who might not have access to a medical provider every week. Side effects may include mild itching or swelling in the mouth. Serious reactions are rare, so certain patients may be advised to carry an epinephrine auto-injector as a precaution.

Both SCIT and SLIT are effective at reducing allergy symptoms and improving quality of life. The choice between the two depends on factors such as the type of allergy, patient preference, and convenience. SCIT is more versatile and treats a broader range of allergens. SCIT is currently the only effective treatment option for stinging insect venom allergies, including bee, wasp, yellowjacket, and hornet venom. The main benefit of SLIT is the lower likelihood of severe reactions which allows the treatment to be administered at home, reducing the amount of time a patient needs to spend in a medical office.

• Patients with moderate to severe allergies that are not well controlled with symptomatic medications
• Patients allergic to unavoidable allergens
• Patients known to have an anaphylactic reaction to an allergen in the past
• Patients older than five years old (or able to comply with treatment instructions and communicate any possible reactions)

Immunotherapy may not be suitable for patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma or immune system disorders. A thorough evaluation by an allergist is essential to determine if immunotherapy is the right option.

Allergy immunotherapy offers a promising solution for those seeking long-term relief from allergies. By gradually desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens, immunotherapy reduces symptoms and addresses the root cause of the allergy. Whether administered through injections or sublingual drops⁶, immunotherapy can notably improve quality of life for allergy sufferers. With the potential to modify the course of allergic diseases and provide lasting relief, immunotherapy is a powerful tool in the fight against allergic reactions.

*HollisterStier products have not been authorized by the FDA for SLIT route of administration. Please refer to the full prescribing information for HollisterStier products.

Dust mite allergies are a common allergy affecting approximately 20 million people across the United States with 84% of households in the U.S. having the presence of dust mites.¹ These tiny, invisible pests thrive in our homes, especially in areas where dust accumulates, and can trigger allergy reactions that significantly impact quality of life. This article explores what dust mites are, how they cause allergy symptoms, common symptoms, and effective ways to manage and mitigate dust mite allergies.

• Sneezing
• Rhinorrhea
• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Nasal stuffiness
• Itchy skin, nose, mouth, or throat
• Postnasal drip
• Cough
• Lethargy or general malaise
• Impaired sleep caused by shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing

• A family history of allergies
• Reactiveness in childhood or adolescence
• Exposure to a high level of dust mites

There are multiple ways that an allergist can test a patient for a potential dust mite allergy. Primarily, allergists will conduct a skin prick test as the first line of testing as it has a high sensitivity and is convenient while yielding results within 20 minutes.¹ In a skin prick test, a small amount of the allergen extract is applied to the skin using a testing device like HollisterStier Allergy’s Comforten^® skin testing system, and the area is then observed for a reaction.

In this article, we interview Marc Thomas, a Medical Science Liaison at HollisterStier Allergy and a professional healthcare provider in ENT allergy since 1989. Marc oversaw the allergy department for S.E.O.O. Inc. for twenty-three years, and then moved on to work with Antigen Laboratories where he eventually became Antigen’s Clinical Science Liaison before moving on to HollisterStier. In this interview, Marc delves into the intricacies of venom immunotherapy. Marc shares personal insights, explains how venom immunotherapy works, and highlights its profound impact on patients’ lives. 

Disclaimer – Marc Thomas is a paid consultant and not an employee of HollisterStier. The thoughts and opinions are his own and reflect his personal experience in the field of allergy.

Some of them know which stinging insects cause their allergy, some of them don’t. But even if they do, often they’re not clear whether their situation is potentially life-threatening. Sometimes just clarifying that, by being tested, can be helpful. Testing is done using blood tests, preferably skin tests, and we can determine if a person is sensitive. 

Once that is determined, then of course we try to convince them to embark upon immunotherapy because it’s really the only thing that can retrain the body not to react so violently to venom. As a matter of fact, 75-98% of people that go through immunotherapy for venom will not have a systemic reaction or have a reaction that is milder than before going through treatment.¹ There are not many therapies in medicine that can give patients and physicians a high amount of confidence in personal safety, but venom immunotherapy is one of them.” 

It’s similar to how, for years, we called and spoke about the strengths of allergy extracts as potency. But over time, a lot of us who have been in the industry for a long time switched away from saying potent to saying biologically active. This is because the word potency there again is another one of those words that implies poison or danger in somebody’s mind. 

Certainly, we need people to know that in handling venom, if they go about it without following proper instructions, it can be harmful and dangerous. But in the right hands and handled properly, it is a safe procedure, and most people get through it well. It has good outcomes and, if nothing else, just being able to live without being in fear that you’re going to get stung and experience a severe reaction.” 

“Although all extract treatments go through rigorous research and testing, VIT stands out because we understand that the venom allergy proteins are the cause of the allergy, so we know exactly what we’re delivering to patients. We know exactly what proteins are involved in the reaction and so we know exactly what we’re delivering and exactly how much we’re delivering. Whereas a lot of the non-standardized extracts like mold and pollens, even some animal danders, we don’t know exactly what the allergen components in some of those treatments are and we don’t know exactly what the right doses are for each individual person when it comes to their treatment.”

I’ve always compared the rapidity of the reaction the patients have to a venom sting to that of a car crash and I compare the seat belt or airbags to the epinephrine pen or medications that you might use. If you’re travelling down the road at 150 miles an hour and you crash into a bridge there’s probably not too much of a likelihood that your seat belt or airbag or any of that’s going to save you. But if you can slow that car down to 50 miles an hour, and you hit that bridge, then your seat belt or airbag will probably save you. 

If nothing else, even if we can’t build a person up to where they can tolerate a full sting, we can build their tolerance up enough to where it slows the reaction down and buys time for the medications to work or for them to get to where they can get more care. 

We’re saving lives. Patients need to understand VIT and that it is very effective. If we can get them on this treatment, it can be life-changing for patients. If nothing else, if we can slow down the reaction, we can buy them time. You can’t put a dollar sign on that.”