Robyn O'Hehir

Nov 4, 2024 | onlinelibrary.wiley.com | Eve Denton |Mark Hew |Robyn O'Hehir

Allergic rhino-conjunctivitis (ARC) is common in children and markedly impairs quality of life. Children with ARC not only suffer significant morbidity but also face a threefold higher risk of developing asthma [1]. Tree pollens are a major cause of seasonal ARC in Europe and parts of North America. Significant among these is birch pollen, with sensitisation rates in 14 European countries estimated generally at 24%, but as high as 54% in selected parts of Northern Europe [2, 3].

Jul 9, 2024 | onlinelibrary.wiley.com | Robyn O'Hehir |Craig I. McKenzie |Craig Mckenzie

Allergic diseases are amongst the most common chronic immune-mediated disorders, and can manifest with enormous diversity in clinical severity and range of symptoms that include anaphylaxis, asthma and urticaria. While allergen avoidance and pharmacotherapy (e.g., anti-histamines, adrenaline, corticosteroids) are effective, patients are still at risk of severe reactions from accidental exposure.