Practical study of sublingual immunotherapy for patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis using a questionnaire: Comparison between the First Season and Second Season

Sublingual immunotherapy has been applied to patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis since 2014. However, no studies have been carried out to determine the efficacy of this treatment. Patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis who received this treatment in 2014 and 2015 were enrolled in this study. The clinical usage level, satisfaction level, and adverse effects of this treatment were investigated using a questionnaire in both groups patients treated in 2014 and in 2015. The clinical usage level was more than 90% in both groups, which was within acceptable limits. The subjective symptoms improved and the patients were satisfied with this treatment in both groups. Of 272 patients, 33 (12.1%) developed adverse effects with those involving the oral cavity and throat being the most common (21 patients; 63.7%). Most adverse effects developing during the maintenance phase occurred within the first few weeks. All adverse effects in the present study were minor, and none necessitated treatment discontinuation. The incidence of side effects was higher in first season than in second season (21.4% and 2.2%, respectively). These results led us to conclude that sublingual immunotherapy is an effective therapy for Japanese cedar pollinosis. However, clinicians must bear in mind that the management of adverse effects is mandatory for safety.