Alternaria Alternata (402)

This article discusses clinical trials investigating the use of Alternaria Alternata (402) in allergy testing. Alternaria Alternata is a common mold allergen, and these studies aim to evaluate its effectiveness and safety in diagnosing allergies. The trials focus on patients with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis, exploring the potential of this allergen extract in skin prick tests for accurate allergy diagnosis.

Table of Contents

What is Alternaria alternata?

Alternaria alternata (402) is an active substance used in allergy testing and treatment[1]. It is derived from a type of mold called Alternaria alternata, which is a common environmental allergen. This substance is classified as a structurally diverse substance – allergen, meaning it’s a complex biological molecule capable of triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Medical Use

The primary medical use of Alternaria alternata (402) is in the form of a solution for skin-prick tests[1]. Skin-prick tests are a common method used by allergists to diagnose specific allergies. In this context, Alternaria alternata (402) is used to identify if a patient is allergic to this particular type of mold.

While not explicitly mentioned in the provided clinical trial data, allergen extracts like Alternaria alternata are sometimes also used in immunotherapy treatments to help desensitize patients to specific allergens over time.

Administration

The product containing Alternaria alternata (402) is administered topically, which means it’s applied to the surface of the skin[1]. Specifically, it’s used in a skin-prick test, where a small amount of the allergen solution is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and the skin is then lightly pricked to allow the solution to enter the outer layer of skin.

The dosage information provided indicates that the maximum daily dose and maximum total dose is 1 drop (Gtt)[1]. This reflects the typical procedure for skin-prick tests, where only a small amount of the allergen is needed to elicit a reaction in allergic individuals.

Clinical Trials

While the provided clinical trial data doesn’t focus specifically on Alternaria alternata (402), it’s mentioned as an auxiliary product in trials studying other allergens[1][2]. This suggests that it may be used as part of the diagnostic process in these studies, likely to identify or confirm allergies in study participants.

Potential Benefits

The main benefit of Alternaria alternata (402) in skin-prick tests is its ability to accurately diagnose allergies to this specific mold. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for several reasons:

  • It helps patients understand their triggers and avoid them when possible.
  • It guides healthcare providers in developing appropriate treatment plans.
  • It can inform decisions about whether allergen immunotherapy might be beneficial.

Precautions and Considerations

While skin-prick tests are generally safe, there are some important considerations:

  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, patients may experience a severe allergic reaction during a skin-prick test. Therefore, these tests should always be performed under medical supervision.
  • Medication interactions: Certain medications, particularly antihistamines, can interfere with the results of skin-prick tests. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they’re taking.
  • Skin conditions: Patients with certain skin conditions may not be suitable candidates for skin-prick tests.
  • Pregnancy: While not specifically mentioned for this product, allergy testing is often avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.

It’s important to note that while this article provides general information about Alternaria alternata (402) and its use in allergy testing, individual experiences may vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and before undergoing any medical tests or treatments.

Aspect Details
Drug Name Alternaria Alternata (402)
Formulation Solution for skin-prick test
Use in Trials Diagnostic tool for allergy testing
Target Condition Moderate to severe allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis
Administration Route Topical (skin prick)
Dosage 1 drop per test
Patient Age Range 18-65 years
Key Inclusion Criteria History of allergy symptoms, positive skin prick test, specific IgE levels
Key Exclusion Criteria Previous immunotherapy, severe asthma, immune system disorders

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Alternaria Alternata (402)

  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Phleum Pratense Pollen Extract for Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Grass Pollen Allergy

    Not recruiting

    4 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Germany
  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Sublingual Immunotherapy with Betula Pendula Pollen Extract for Patients with Birch Pollen Allergy

    Not recruiting

    4 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Germany

Glossary

  • Allergic rhinitis: An allergic reaction affecting the nasal passages, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and congestion in response to allergens like pollen or mold spores.
  • Rhinoconjunctivitis: A condition where both the nasal passages and eyes are affected by an allergic reaction, causing symptoms in both areas.
  • Skin prick test: A method of allergy testing where small amounts of potential allergens are placed on the skin, which is then lightly pricked, to observe any allergic reactions.
  • Sublingual immunotherapy: A treatment for allergies where small doses of an allergen are placed under the tongue to help the body build tolerance over time.
  • Allergen extract: A solution containing specific allergens, such as Alternaria Alternata, used in allergy testing or immunotherapy treatments.
  • ARIA guideline: Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma guideline, a set of recommendations for diagnosing and managing allergic rhinitis.
  • FEV1: Forced Expiratory Volume in one second, a measure of lung function used to assess respiratory health, particularly in asthma patients.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-the-effectiveness-and-safety-of-sublingual-immunotherapy-with-betula-pendula-pollen-extract-for-patients-with-birch-pollen-allergy/
  2. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-the-effectiveness-and-safety-of-phleum-pratense-pollen-extract-for-patients-with-moderate-to-severe-grass-pollen-allergy/