Immune System Desensitization via Gradual Exposure

Desensitization of the immune system through gradual exposure is a therapeutic approach designed to reduce hypersensitivity reactions by systematically exposing the immune system to increasing amounts of a specific allergen. This process aims to retrain the immune response, leading to long-term tolerance and reduced symptoms upon future exposures. The therapy involves controlled administration of small but gradually increasing doses of an allergen, either via subcutaneous injections, oral ingestion, or other routes. Over time, there is a shift in antibody production from IgE toward IgG4 antibodies, and regulatory T cells are induced, further promoting tolerance.

Other names

Allergen ImmunotherapyDesensitisationAllergy ShotsOral Immunotherapy (OIT)Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT)Rapid Desensitization

Gradual exposure to increasing doses of allergen leads to: - Suppression of mast cell and basophil reactivity. - Shift from IgE to IgG4 antibody production. - Induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs). - Promotion of immune tolerance.