Immunotherapy with Vespula venom for Vespa velutina nigrithorax anaphylaxis: Preliminary clinical and immunological results

The Asian wasp, Vespa velutina nigrithorax, has become the most prevalent Hymenoptera species involved in anaphylactic reactions in NW Spain. (1,2) In previous studies we have proven a strong correlation between serum specific IgE (sIgE) to Vespula spp. venom and Vespa velutina nigrithorax venom. (2) Besides, inhibition experiments suggested that Vespula spp. venom is the genuine sensitizer in these cases, supporting the idea that sensitization could have occurred after Vespula spp stings. (2) These results were not surprising since cross-reactivity among allergens from different Vespidae is well-known. (3).