[Specific immunotherapy (hyposensitization) with insect venom in pregnancy]

Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol. 2000 May-Jun;204(3):117-9. doi: 10.1055/s-2000-10207.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy typically prohibits the specific immunotherapy (SIT) of various allergic conditions, with the exception of pre-existing Hymenoptera venom allergies. International consensus currently recommends the continuation of a well-tolerated SIT with insect venom during pregnancy, since there is a significant risk of anaphylaxis after insect stings with potentially dismal outcomes for mother and fetus.

Case report: We report on a 28-year old woman, becoming pregnant during specific immunotherapy with Hymenoptera venom. SIT was continued during pregnancy and a premature birth occurred at the 24th week.

Discussion and conclusion: Unfortunately, there are still conflicting opinions in Germany regarding SIT during pregnancy, and the decision to perform such therapy is entirely based on knowledge and/or level of comfort of the primary physician. Thus, obstetricians should closely work together with an allergologist in cases of pregnant women with insect sting allergies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Contraindications
  • Desensitization, Immunologic*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Obstetric Labor, Premature / chemically induced*
  • Pregnancy
  • Risk Factors
  • Wasp Venoms / administration & dosage
  • Wasp Venoms / adverse effects*
  • Wasp Venoms / immunology
  • Wasps / immunology*

Substances

  • Wasp Venoms