The Allergy & Asthma Clinic in San Mateo offers cluster immunotherapy as an advanced treatment option that helps patients build tolerance to allergens more efficiently. Our approach significantly reduces the time needed to reach a maintenance dose, offering a faster solution for people with severe allergies. Through a series of injections in a single session, individuals experience quicker desensitization to allergens, allowing them to manage symptoms better. Our board-certified professionals are always here to help with the latest techniques and excellent care!
Cluster immunotherapy is an advanced allergy treatment designed to build the body’s tolerance to allergens more quickly than traditional methods. Instead of receiving a single injection per visit, patients undergo multiple shots in one session, typically lasting about two hours. This accelerated approach allows individuals to reach a maintenance dose in a shorter period, potentially reducing the overall treatment timeline. Cluster immunotherapy involves providing controlled doses of allergens at regular intervals, gradually desensitizing the immune system. This procedure is performed under professional supervision to ensure patient safety. Cluster immunotherapy should not be confused with regular immunotherapy (cancer treatment). Its primary purpose is to relieve allergic symptoms, not treat malignant cells.
Before starting cluster immunotherapy, a thorough consultation with our healthcare provider is essential to determine whether the procedure is appropriate based on the patient’s medical history and allergy test results. We may recommend specific pre-treatment medications, such as antihistamines and Singulair, to reduce the risk of adverse reactions during the injection sessions. Patients are also advised to avoid strenuous activities on the day of the procedure to minimize potential complications. Because cluster immunotherapy involves a concentrated exposure to allergens, careful preparation helps ensure both safety and effectiveness. Adhering to these medical guidelines is crucial for a smooth treatment experience.
Before each injection during cluster immunotherapy, the skin in the target area is carefully prepared to ensure cleanliness and reduce the risk of infection. Our physicians use an antiseptic solution to remove dirt, oils, or bacteria. This step helps create an optimal environment for the injections, ensuring that the allergens are administered accurately and safely. Proper skin preparation is an essential part of the procedure to maintain hygiene and minimize any potential complications.
After completing the build-up phase, we transition to the maintenance stage. This period typically lasts about 5 years, during which time the body’s immune system continues to develop and increase its ability to tolerate exposure without triggering an allergic reaction by regular controlled exposure to allergens.
After cluster immunotherapy, patients should follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery. Some individuals experience mild soreness, swelling, or redness at the injection sites. These effects usually subside within a few hours. If any discomfort persists, we may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever.
To reduce the risk of irritation or further reactions, patients should avoid vigorous exercise or activities that might cause excessive sweating for at least 24 hours after the procedure. They must also monitor for unusual symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or dizziness, and seek medical attention if these side effects arise. Maintaining the prescribed medication regimen, including antihistamines or other drugs as directed, can help manage mild reactions and support the body’s adjustment to the allergens. Regular follow-ups are crucial to track progress and adjust the treatment plan.
One of the primary benefits of cluster immunotherapy is its ability to get faster results than traditional allergy treatments. By receiving multiple injections in a single visit, patients can achieve in just a few hours the benefit that typically takes a month of conventional allergy injections. This accelerated approach allows individuals to build tolerance more quickly.
Patients who undergo cluster immunotherapy often experience long-term relief from allergy symptoms. The rapid buildup of tolerance to allergens can lead to sustained improvements, with most patients requiring far fewer immunotherapy sessions before the maintenance phase is reached. Over time, the procedure may decrease the need for other allergy medications, providing a more natural and long-lasting solution.
Cluster Immunotherapy | Medications | Nasal Sprays | |
|---|---|---|---|
Treatment Duration | Faster, with multiple injections in one session, typically lasting 2 hours | Ongoing; requires daily or regular use | Ongoing; typically requires daily use |
Maintenance Phase | Accelerated; quicker transition to maintenance phase | No maintenance phase; continuous symptom management | No maintenance phase; continuous symptom management |
Session Frequency | Fewer visits, as multiple injections are given in one session | Daily or as prescribed; requires frequent use | Daily or as prescribed; requires frequent use |
Tolerance Building | Builds tolerance to allergens quickly | Does not build tolerance; merely manages symptoms | Does not build tolerance; merely manages symptoms |
Convenience | More convenient with fewer visits needed | May require daily adherence and refills | Requires regular use, which may be inconvenient |
Effectiveness for Severe Allergies | More effective for individuals with severe allergies | May not provide sufficient relief for severe allergies | Often not enough for severe allergies; works best for mild cases |
Side Effects | Close monitoring during the session for immediate reactions. No long-term side effects | Side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, or dizziness; may require periodic adjustment | Side effects include irritation or dryness in the nasal passages |
The cost of cluster immunotherapy in the San Francisco Bay Area varies depending on the specific allergies being addressed and the treatment protocol recommended by the healthcare provider. When medically indicated, most commercial insurance carriers cover this benefit. We recommend that patients consult our team to receive support with coverage. Our specialists can help you check your benefits and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Our advanced clinic, managed by Dr. Andrew C. Engler, stands out for its personalized and expert-driven approach to allergy treatment. With a history spanning over 30 years, we offer innovative solutions like cluster immunotherapy, helping patients achieve faster relief from bothersome symptoms. Our board-certified doctors and highly trained staff ensure that each individual receives care tailored to their needs. We use cutting-edge techniques and technologies, making the Allergy & Asthma Clinic a trusted provider for individuals seeking comprehensive treatment.
San Mateo Office
Phone- (650) 343-4597 | Fax-(650) 343-3402
Daly City Office
Phone- (650) 991-0405 | Fax-(650) 343-3402
Design & Digital Marketing by 
Food Allergies
Insect Allergies
Environmental Allergies
Skin allergies
Other CommonAllergies
Nose & Sinus Allergies
Lifestyle Changes
First and foremost let me start by saying that these people did one hell of a job figuring out my sinus problems. When I first arrived there, I explained what was going on with me having excessive inflammation in the sinus…after they tested me, I found out that I was being exposed to dust mites which gave me a strong reaction. I followed the doctors guides lines in terms of cleaning my room and ever since, my sinus inflammation went away for good and now I have a healthy sinus. Thank you for everything.
My 10 year old son also has allergies and asthma and the staff makes sure that he feels well taken care of and comfortable, despite his having Autism and ADHD. He actually looks forward to going there with me, whether it be for my allergy shots or even when he needed allergy skin testing. When you’re a patient at the Allergy and Asthma clinic, you are treated as if you are the only patient they have, even when the waiting room is full. Dr. Engler has hired truly excellent staff, from the front desk people to the nurses and medical assistants. If you have allergies and/or asthma and you live on the Peninsula or even in the city, I highly recommend that you visit the Allergy and Asthma Clinic. They are truly amazing and will make you feel so much better.
