A Delphi consensus on diagnosis, management, and treatment withallergen immunotherapy of polysensitized children in Spain

Background: The study aimed to evaluate the level of agreement between specialists in pediatric allergology regarding the diagnosis and indications for pollen allergen immunotherapy (AIT) of polysensitized children in Spain.Materials and methods: A Delphi study was performed using an online survey designed by a committee of pediatric AIT experts: 46 and 44 panelists participated in rounds 1 and 2, respectively. In round 1, 204 statements on 8 dimensions were evaluated (Diagnosis; Therapeutic management; Pollens – Part I; Mites; Moulds; Animals; Hymenoptera venom; and Mixtures - Part II). A total of 148 statements were finally accepted after round 2. Panel members rated their level of agreement with assessments on a 9-point Likert scale based on acceptance by ≥ 66.7% of them.Results: According to the results, the polysensitization determination in allergic patients is confirmed by clinical history, skin prick test, total and specific IgE, and molecular diagnostics. Clinical assessments are recommended for the AIT effectiveness evaluation. Follow-ups should be performed 6 months after AIT initiation. According to experts, pollens are the most representative allergens in allergic rhinitis but AIT is more effective in bronchial asthma treatment. The IgE levels are positively related to the intensity of the symptomatology and the efficacy of Grass AIT. In pollen mixtures, a maximum mixture of three AIT allergens is established between Grass, Olive, and Cupressaceae. Mixing pollen from Platanus acerifolia and Parietaria is not recommended.Conclusions: This study provides, where evidence is lacking, current expert-based opinions on clinical decision-making for managing pollen AIT in polysensitized children.