Effect of Histaglobulin in Allergic Rhinitis- A Prospective Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND Rhinitis can be defined as congestion of Nasal Mucous Membrane accompanied by Rhinorrhoea and Sneezing. Two elements required for its development are an immunological sensitivity to an allergen and recurrent continuous exposure to it resulting in Histamine release. Histaglobulin Subcutaneous Injection leads to development of Antibodies to Histamine which will protect for 6 to 18 months against endogenous Histamine released as a result of allergy. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of histaglobulin in improving the symptomatology and quality of life of patients suffering from allergic rhinitis, not responding to conventional treatment modalities. MATERIALS AND METHODS A study of 50 patient aged 16 to 50 years of Allergic Rhinitis was conducted in ENT Department of GSVM Medical College, Kanpur for a period of 18 months. Subcutaneous histaglobulin injection was given in doses of 1 ml, 4 Injections at an interval of 4 days for first month, next 4 injections at interval of 4 days in next month, followed by 1 injection per month for the next 3 consecutive months and booster dose after 6 months was given. RESULTS The effectiveness of Histaglobulin was evaluated by history, clinical examination, allergic tests like serum IgE estimation and eosinophil count to assess the response to therapy. 23 patients had complete response, 21 had fair response, while 6 had a poor response. CONCLUSION Histaglobulin injection is safe and effective treatment for Allergic Rhinitis with no adverse effects. It gives promising results for considerable periods of time, improves the quality of life in allergic rhinitis patients.