Name of the Procedure:

Professional Services for the Supervision of Preparation and Provision of Antigens for Allergen Immunotherapy: 2 Single Stinging Insect Venoms

Summary

This procedure involves the management and supervision of preparing and administering antigens specifically tailored for allergen immunotherapy. In this case, it involves two single stinging insect venoms.

Purpose

This procedure is designed to reduce allergic reactions to stings from insects such as bees or wasps. The goal is to help the patient's immune system become more tolerant to the insect venom, thereby decreasing the severity of allergic reactions over time.

Indications

• History of severe allergic reactions to stinging insects (e.g., anaphylaxis).
• Positive allergy tests confirming sensitivity to specific stinging insect venoms.
• Recommendation by an allergist or immunologist.

Preparation

• Patients may need to avoid certain medications, such as antihistamines, before the procedure.
• An allergy test may be performed to confirm sensitivity to the specific insect venom.

Procedure Description

1. Consultation: Initial evaluation by a healthcare provider to discuss medical history and allergy test results.
2. Preparation: Custom preparation of antigen extracts (stinging insect venoms).
3. Supervision: Healthcare provider supervises the preparation and administration of the antigen doses.
4. Administration: The antigens are typically administered via subcutaneous injections.
5. Observation: Patient is monitored for any adverse reactions, ensuring safety and efficacy.

Duration

The preparation and administration of the antigens usually take about 30 minutes to 1 hour, but the entire immunotherapy regimen can span several months or years with regular follow-up doses.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic or allergy specialist's office.

Personnel

• Allergist/Immunologist
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Medical Assistant

Risks and Complications

• Local reactions at the injection site (swelling, redness)
• Systemic allergic reactions (rare but possible anaphylaxis)
• Close monitoring and emergency interventions are available if complications arise.

Benefits

• Reduced severity of allergic reactions to stinging insects.
• Increased tolerance to insect venom.
• Improved quality of life due to decreased anxiety about stings.

Recovery

• Patients are observed for 30 minutes post-injection for any adverse reactions.
• Minimal recovery time; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress and adjust doses.

Alternatives

• Avoidance of stinging insects.
• Emergency self-injectable epinephrine (e.g., EpiPen) for severe reactions.
• Pros: Avoids the need for frequent medical visits.
• Cons: Does not provide long-term immunity or tolerance.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or pain at the injection site.
• Patients may feel anxious during early treatments but usually become more comfortable over time.
• Effective pain management and support from healthcare providers help ensure a positive experience.