alternaria alternata allergen extract

Alternaria alternata allergen extract is a biological product derived from the common mold *Alternaria alternata*. It is used for both the diagnosis and treatment of allergies to this fungus, which are a significant cause of respiratory conditions like allergic rhinitis and asthma. For diagnosis, the extract is used in skin prick tests and bronchial challenges to identify sensitivity in patients. As a therapeutic, it is the active component in allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to desensitize the patient's immune system. This immunotherapy works by administering controlled doses of the allergen, either via subcutaneous injection or sublingually, to modulate the immune response and build tolerance. To improve safety and reduce the high rate of adverse reactions associated with native extracts, modified versions called allergoids are developed. These are often created by treating the native extract with substances like glutaraldehyde, which polymerizes the proteins, reducing their ability to bind to IgE while retaining their immunogenicity. These polymerized extracts, such as Clustoid MAX Alternaria and Depigoid Alternaria alternata, allow for safer administration at higher concentrations.

Brand names

Clustoid MAX AlternariaDepigoid Alternaria alternata

Other names

Alternaria alternata allergoidglutaraldehyde-polymerized Alternaria alternata extractpolymerized A. alternata extractdepigmented allergoid