Venom Allergy and Immunotherapy
Venom allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to the venom of stinging insects such as bees, wasps or other Hymenoptera species. Reactions can range from large local swelling at the sting site to systemic allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Symptoms of venom allergy
Allergic reactions to insect stings may present with widespread hives, swelling beyond the sting site, flushing, difficulty breathing, throat tightness, dizziness or collapse. Severe reactions can progress rapidly and require urgent emergency treatment. Some patients experience only large local swelling, while others may develop systemic reactions after a sting. A detailed clinical history is essential to determine the nature and severity of the reaction.
Specialist assessment
At Queensland Allergy & Immunology Clinic, we provide comprehensive assessment following suspected allergic reactions to insect stings. This includes a detailed history of the reaction, review of previous exposures, and targeted allergy testing where appropriate. Testing may include venom-specific IgE blood testing and, in selected cases, skin testing to help confirm sensitisation to specific insect venoms. The goal of assessment is to determine the risk of future systemic reactions and to guide long-term management strategies.
Venom immunotherapy
Venom immunotherapy is a highly effective long-term treatment for patients with confirmed systemic venom allergy. It involves the administration of gradually increasing doses of purified venom extract to induce immune tolerance over time. This treatment significantly reduces the risk of severe allergic reactions following future insect stings and is considered the most effective preventative therapy for venom allergy. Venom immunotherapy is typically administered over a long-term course, with an initial build-up phase followed by a maintenance phase over several years. Treatment is carefully supervised and individualised based on patient risk and clinical history.
Adrenaline autoinjector and emergency planning
Patients with venom allergy are often prescribed an adrenaline autoinjector and provided with education on its use. This includes training on recognition of allergic symptoms, emergency response, and avoidance strategies to reduce the risk of future reactions. A personalised ASCIA action plan is also provided to support emergency preparedness.
Queensland Allergy & Immunology Clinic is a specialist allergy and clinical immunology clinic based in Birtinya on the Sunshine Coast, providing expert care for patients across the wider Sunshine Coast region including Kawana, Caloundra, Buderim, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Sippy Downs, Coolum, Noosa, Brisbane North, and surrounding areas. We provide both in-person consultations in Birtinya and telehealth appointments across Queensland, with short wait times for specialist allergy and immunology care.