Rapid desensitization is a procedure which patients with allergic disease are treated with increasing doses of antigen until they tolerate a large dose. It is an effective way to induce tolerance quickly. Methods include rush or cluster immunotherapy. Patients receive a series of ten injections with increasing dosages of antigen within a three hour visit. Serial exams and vital signs are monitored given higher risk of allergic reaction. It has more rapid results than traditional weekly shots of immunotherapy.  It is useful for patients with uncontrolled nasal symptoms who need rapid results or patients such as students whose schedules make it difficult to receive a weekly shot. This is an available procedure in our office.

Author Saraleen Benouni, MD Dr. Benouni specializes in the treatment of asthma, allergies, atopic dermatitis, and immune disorders for both adults and children. She has presented and published research at national allergy meetings and has authored papers on drug allergies and skin conditions. She is a member of the American College and American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, and the Los Angeles Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology.