95144 Professional services for the supervision of preparation and provision of antigens for allergen immunotherapy, single dose vial(s) (specify number of vials)

Name of the Procedure:

Professional Services for the Supervision of Preparation and Provision of Antigens for Allergen Immunotherapy, Single Dose Vial(s) (Specify Number of Vials)

Summary

This procedure involves medical supervision over the preparation and administration of antigens in single-dose vials for allergen immunotherapy. It's aimed at gradually desensitizing patients to specific allergens, reducing their allergic reactions over time.

Purpose

The primary purpose is to manage and mitigate allergic symptoms caused by specific allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. The goal is to help patients build up immunity and tolerance to the allergens, ultimately leading to a significant reduction in allergic reactions.

Indications

• Chronic allergic rhinitis (persistent nasal allergies)
• Allergic asthma
• Allergic conjunctivitis (eye allergies)
• Secondary prevention of severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis
• Patients who have not responded well to traditional allergy treatments

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo allergy testing to identify specific allergens.
• Pre-procedure consultations to review medical history and current medications.
• Instructions to avoid certain medications, like antihistamines, before the procedure.
• Fasting is generally not required.

Procedure Description

1. Identification of the specific allergen(s) causing allergic reactions through prior testing.
2. Preparing the appropriate single-dose vials of antigen.
3. Administering the antigen via injection under supervised medical conditions.
4. Monitoring the patient for any adverse reactions for a specific period post-injection.
   • Necessary tools include syringes, antigen vials, and potentially epinephrine for emergency use.
   • No anesthesia or sedation is typically required.

Duration

The procedure itself is quick, typically lasting around 15-30 minutes, but patients are often monitored for 30 minutes to an hour afterward for any immediate reactions.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an allergist's office or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Allergist or immunologist
• Nursing staff
• Medical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Localized reactions at the injection site (redness, swelling)
• Systemic allergic reactions (rare but could include anaphylaxis)
• Management includes the immediate administration of antihistamines or epinephrine and emergency medical care if needed.

Benefits

• Significant reduction in allergic symptoms
• Improved quality of life with fewer restrictions on activities
• Benefits can start to be realized within a few months but might require consistent treatment over 3-5 years.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; most patients can return to daily activities immediately.
• Instructions to monitor for any delayed allergic reactions.
• Regular follow-up appointments to adjust dosages and monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Oral antihistamines or other allergy medications
• Avoidance of identified allergens
• Pros: Non-invasive, immediate symptomatic relief
• Cons: Often requires daily medication, less effective long-term compared to immunotherapy

Patient Experience

Patients may experience a mild discomfort or pain at the injection site. Ongoing treatment requires regular visits, but the long-term reduction in allergy symptoms makes it well-tolerated. Pain management typically includes applying ice to the injection site or taking mild analgesics if needed.