Food Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
Immunotherapy @ POOLE Clinic
We are delighted to offer immunotherapy to some of the most common food allergens here at our clinic in Poole. We are the first community clinic outside of London to offer Oral Immunotherapy Treatment, which has a far reaching impact on the quality of life for patients and their families.
Dr Helen and her team are experienced in delivering different types of immunotherapy and they are delighted to be broadening their treatments to new food.
Book With Dr Helen
What is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy or allergen immunotherapy refers to the process by which the body is gradually exposed to increasing doses of a substance which someone is allergic to, in order to reduce the severity of allergic reactions. This is also known as desensitisation. Immunotherapy has been in existence for many years and is widely used across the world to treat allergies. When administered by someone with the right experience, immunotherapy is considered safe and effective.
How does oral immunotherapy work?
Immunotherapy, also known as allergen immunotherapy, involves gradually exposing the body to increasing doses of an allergen to reduce allergic reactions’ severity. This method, desensitisation, has been practiced for years and is globally employed to address allergies. When administered by a experienced professional, immunotherapy is considered safe and effective
What food allergies are you able to treat?
We are thrilled to announce our partnership with our colleagues in London – Professor Adam Fox, Professor George du Toit and Professor Gideon Lack. Their support has enabled our clinic to offer this service. If you would like more information please see About Immunotherapy – Allergy Centre of Excellence
Initial assessments can be booked with Dr Helen to discuss suitability. We will then ask all patients to register with the admin team in London, as all appointments are arranged centrally.
In our Poole clinic we are currently offering treatment for the following allergens:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
- Sesame
- More to be added in due course
Our colleagues in London can also offer milk OIT for those over 6.
We also offer peanut OIT at Southampton hospital using Palforzia treatment, which is generally offered for those aged 4-17 years.
