Hymenoptera venom allergy: How negative testing after five years of immunotherapy informs treatment discontinuation.

BACKGROUND

Hymenoptera venom allergy represents a potentially life-threatening condition. Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is the treatment of choice in patients with systemic reactions.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 65-year-old male, who experienced systemic reactions following hymenoptera stings. In vitro and in vivo allergy tests revealed sensitization predominantly to Polistes dominula and specific VIT was initiated. During VIT, the patient experienced two subsequent stings with only local reactions. After 5 years of VIT, repeated serological evaluation and skin tests turned negative, leading to the decision to discontinue therapy.

CONCLUSION

This case underlines the efficacy and safety of VIT in patients with severe hymenoptera venom allergy in preventing systemic reactions. A comprehensive diagnostic work-up, including laboratory and skin tests, is crucial in the management and subsequent evaluation of therapeutic efficacy.