Our services
We provide care for a wide range of allergic and immunologic disorders including:
Food Allergy
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Food allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to food proteins. This reaction can cause a range of symptoms, from mild (such as itching and hives) to anaphylaxis (multi-system allergic reaction). Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
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We provide services in the accurate diagnosis and management of food allergies. Our approach will involve a thorough assessment of the history of reaction to the food(s), and targeted investigations with skin prick testing, bloodwork, and/or oral food challenges, as medically indicated.
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We are excited to also offer oral immunotherapy (OIT), which is a desensitization procedure for pediatric patients with food allergies 6 years and under.
Drug and vaccine allergy
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A drug allergy is an adverse reaction of the immune system to a medication. Some of the most common medications that cause allergies include antibiotics (penicillin), sulfa-drugs, and NSAID medications (like ibuprofen).
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Vaccine reactions usually involve mild and local reactions. True allergic reactions are possible, though rare.
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We provide an individualized approach to drug and vaccine allergy diagnosis. Testing may involve skin testing, as well as drug and vaccine challenges.
Environmental allergies
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Environmental allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to substances in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mould, or animal dander. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and/or cough.
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Our allergy services can help determine the source of your allergies, and the best treatment options for you including environmental control, pharmacologic management (nasal steroid sprays, oral antihistamines, allergy eye drops), and immunotherapy (subcutaneous and sublingual).
Venom allergy
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A stinging insect allergy is a reaction of the immune system to the venom of stinging insects, such as bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets. Most patients experience minor local pain and swelling, but some patients may have more severe reactions which may range from large local swelling, to anaphylaxis.
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For those with a history of systemic allergic reactions, venom immunotherapy is indicated to reduce the risk of future reactions. We provided accurate diagnosis and treatment for patients with venom allergies.
Allergic Rashes
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Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. Symptoms include red, itchy patches of skin, and distribution varies depending on the age of the patient. Treatment includes regular moisturizing with barrier cream/ointments, topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, and immunomodulators. Avoiding triggers and maintaining skin hydration is also critical in eczema treatment.
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Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, red, itchy welts on the skin that can appear suddenly and disappear within 24 hours.
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Angioedema is similar to hives but affects deeper layers of the skin and can cause more severe swelling. Both hives and angioedema can be caused by a variety of triggers, including allergies, medications, infections, and physical factors like pressure or cold. They may also have an autoimmune mechanism. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms, but may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other medications.
Immunodeficiency
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Primary immunodeficiencies are a group of rare genetic disorders that affect the body’s defense against infections. Symptoms vary greatly depending on the type of primary immunodeficiency, and patients may present with symptoms such as recurrent infections, chronic diarrhea, failure to thrive, requirement for multiple courses of antibiotics, amongst others.
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Evaluation involves careful review of medical history, family history, physical examination, bloodwork, and possible genetics evaluation.
