NATIONAL ALLERGY CENTRE

In India, around 10% of the population suffers from allergic diseases, with nearly 1% of Delhi’s population affected by Allergic Bronchial Asthma, as per ICMR studies. Research by Shivpuri & colleagues (1980–90) has focused on environmental allergens like pollen, fungi, dust mites, and more.

Allergic Asthma results from immune system dysregulation, involving increased IgE, inflammatory mediators, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Allergy skin testing remains a key diagnostic tool, as allergy is a systemic, multi-organ disease influenced by both genetics and environment.

Immunotherapy (IT) is the only treatment that modifies the course of allergic asthma and rhinitis, increasing protective IgG4 and reducing harmful IL-4 and IL-5. A Cochrane meta-analysis of 54 trials confirmed IT’s effectiveness in reducing asthma symptoms, medication needs, and disease progression.

Bronchial provocation testing helps evaluate airway responses to allergens, while elevated IgE levels are critical indicators of atopic conditions like ABPA. Specific IgE testing supports diagnosis when skin test results are unclear.