Evaluating the concordance of pollen forecasting apps against automated pollen monitoring: A single-site experience

Gonzalez F, Ciaccio CE, Nyenhuis SM. J Allergy Clin Immunol Glob. 2026 Jan 12;5(2):100639. doi: 10.1016/j.jacig.2026.100639.

Abstract

Background

Individuals with allergic rhinitis and asthma rely on accurate pollen forecasts to avoid allergen exposure and manage symptoms. However, many widely used weather and health applications (apps) use manual pollen counting methods, which may vary in accuracy.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the concordance between popular pollen forecasting apps and real-time data collected from an automated pollen monitoring device at a single site in the Chicago area.

Methods

We compared daily pollen forecasts from 2 commonly used consumer apps (The Weather Channel app and the AccuWeather app) with pollen data recorded by the PollenSense automated monitoring device over 2 months. To assess daily concordance, forecasted pollen levels and automated counts were categorized as being in the low, moderate, or high ranges. Descriptive and inferential assessment of accuracy and reliability of consumer-facing pollen forecasts were performed.

Results

Concordance between the AccuWeather app and PollenSense.

Across the study period, concordance between the consumer apps and the PollenSense counts was low

Early-life antibiotics and childhood allergy: a multi-center cohort.

Hattab, M., Sarrees, Y., Sous, M. et al.  Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13223-026-01013-5

Abstract

Background

Antibiotic use in infants is hypothesized to alter the gut microbiota, influencing immune system dysregulation and increasing allergy risk. We aim to assess the prevalence of allergic diseases in children treated with different classes of antibiotics in early life.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted from April 2024 to January 2025 in three main hospitals in the West Bank in Palestine. Records of pediatric admissions of children who received antibiotic treatment within their first six months of life were reviewed, followed by parents’ interview regarding the development of allergies.

Effects of sublingual immunotherapy for dust mite on Th 17 / Treg cells in children with asthma

Li, F., Wang, X., Yin, L. et al.  Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13223-026-01010-8

Abstract

Objective

Observing the clinical effects of dust mite sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) on children with asthma, changes of Th17 / Treg cells and related cytokines in order to investigate the possible pathological mechanism of immune tolerance induced by SLIT.

Safety and immunogenicity of a 25-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in pneumococcal vaccine-naive healthy adults: Results from 2 randomised, controlled clinical trials

Langley JM, Sadarangani M, Ockenhouse C et al.  Vaccine. 2026 Jan 22;75:128236. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128236.

Abstract

Background

Pneumococcus causes substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide in children under 5. IVT PCV-25 is a 25-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV25) designed to prevent invasive pneumococcal disease from the serotypes predominant in children, particularly in low and middle income countries (LMICs).

Methods

Pneumococcal serotypes in IVT PCV25 and PCVs licensed in children.

We completed 2 randomised, parallel-group, double-blind clinical trials in Canada to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of a single IM dose of PCV25 in healthy adults who had no history of pneumococcal vaccination or microbiologically confirmed IPD. PCV20 (Prevnar 20) was the control. In CVIA 096, 30 participants per group were randomised to PCV25 at a dose similar to PCV 20 (2.2 μg for each serotype polysaccharide (except 4.4 μg for serotype 6B) with 125 μg aluminium as aluminium phosphate (2.2/125)) or PCV20.

Attack rate reductions following berotralstat initiation among US patients with hereditary angioedema in the real-world

Davis-Lorton, M., Tachdjian, R., Lopez-Gonzalez, L. et al. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13223-025-01005-x

Abstract

Background

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) causes recurring swelling attacks, leading to substantial disease burden. This real-world, retrospective study aimed to evaluate HAE attack rates before and after berotralstat initiation stratified by patients’ baseline attack frequency.

Methods

Specialty Pharmacy data from Optime Care, Inc. (12/2020–01/2024), the sole berotralstat dispenser in the United States, were analyzed. Eligible patients had  ≥ 2 berotralstat dispensings (first =  index) and ≥ 1 self-assessment of attacks at baseline (90-days pre-index) and follow-up (first-to-last dispensing). Patients were classified by HAE type (based on laboratory measurements) and baseline attacks (≥ 5, 2–4, 1, and 0 attacks/month). Follow-up attack rates were compared with baseline using mean differences, confidence intervals, and P-values. Among those with 0 baseline attacks/month, proportions with 0 follow-up attacks/month were assessed.

Results

Of 390 eligible patients with HAE with C1 esterase inhibitor (C1INH) deficiency (HAE-C1INH) and 311 with HAE with normal C1INH (HAE-nC1INH), most were female (64.1% and 77.5%) with mean ages of 39.3 and 48.1 years, respectively.

Patient perspectives of allergic rhinitis and allergen immunotherapy: A qualitative study

Jacob J, Joyce C, Lloyd M et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol Glob. 2025 Dec 1;5(2):100621. doi: 10.1016/j.jacig.2025.100621.

Abstract
Background
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a highly prevalent condition associated with significant morbidity globally. Few recent studies have detailed the experiences of sufferers and explored their perspectives of treatment options. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is an effective treatment option that remains underused in eligible patient populations.
Objective
We sought to describe patient perspectives of AR and treatment options including AIT.
Methods
Twenty-five semistructured interviews were conducted with adult participants at a tertiary hospital center in Sydney, Australia. Authors used an inductive thematic analysis methodology to code and interpret the data.
Results
Three major themes emerged from the qualitative thematic analysis: (1) a prolonged journey with symptoms, (2) multiple trials of therapy with incomplete symptom control, and (3) diverse experiences with AIT.

Survey: Knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, barriers, and pattern of use of oscillometry in Asthma: survey based, cross-sectional study

Dear Healthcare Professional,

Impulse (IOS) or forced (FOT) oscillometry is an advanced technique for assessing pulmonary function. It measures respiratory impedance by applying low-amplitude oscillatory signals to the airway during spontaneous breathing.

Its ability to characterize the mechanics of the distal airways and detect abnormalities that may not be evident with conventional tests makes it a valuable complementary tool for monitoring and stratifying the severity of asthma.

This survey is completely anonymous and aims to optimize the implementation of oscillometry in the assessment and monitoring of patients with asthma.

KAPA Oscillometry Survey English version: https://ccherrezo.questionpro.com/t/AaVIxZ7gPp

KAPA Oscillometry Survey Spanish version: https://ccherrezo.questionpro.com/t/AaVIxZ7iUs

Chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyps: the state-of-the-art of current treatment strategies and future developments

Nappi E, Marzio V, Giombi F et al.  Front Allergy. 2025 Dec 15;6:1714577. doi: 10.3389/falgy.2025.1714577.

Abstract

Therapeutic evolution in primary chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS):
from symptomatic relief to targeted inflammatory modulation 

Over the past decade, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) management has undergone substantial transformation, shifting from conventional symptom-focused treatments to precision medicine strategies grounded on molecular insights. The introduction of biologic agents has significantly changed the therapeutic landscape for CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), directly addressing key inflammatory pathways and leading to marked reductions in nasal polyp burden, overall disease impact, and corticosteroid use.

A strategic framework for digital and sustainable transformation in allergy care: An EAACI position paper

Feketea G, Paciência I, Chang YS et al. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2026 Jan;37(1):e70270. doi: 10.1111/pai.70270. 

Abstract

Background

Allergic diseases, particularly in children, are increasing worldwide and impose growing clinical, economic, and environmental burdens on healthcare systems. Conventional models of allergy care face limitations in early diagnosis, long-term disease monitoring, patient engagement, and sustainability, highlighting the need for innovative and scalable solutions.

Objectives

This position paper aims to propose a global framework for integrating digital health innovations with sustainable models of allergy and immunology care, with particular attention to pediatric and general allergy services.

Methods

The paper is formulated as an expert opinion–based position document informed by current scientific evidence on digital health applications and sustainable healthcare practices in allergy and immunology. Key domains were identified through literature review and consensus discussions, focusing on digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and international collaboration.

Results

The proposed roadmap highlights three strategic priorities: (1) leveraging digital health solutions—including mobile health, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence—to enhance early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and real-time disease monitoring; (2) embedding environmentally sustainable practices into routine allergy care to reduce healthcare-related carbon emissions; and (3) fostering international collaboration among clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to promote equitable access to digital allergy care across diverse healthcare systems.

Biologic Therapies: A Systematic Review of the Indications, Efficacy, Safety, and Outcomes in Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases

Al Saloom Z, Alawainati M, Abdeen Z, et al. (January 07, 2026)  Cureus 18(1): e101059. doi:10.7759/cureus.101059

Abstract

Biologic therapies, such as omalizumab, mepolizumab, and dupilumab, are novel therapeutic agents that offer a targeted approach for managing chronic inflammatory and immune-mediated ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions. However, the indications, efficacy, and adverse events of these medications in various ENT disorders have not been studied before. Therefore, this systematic review was performed to evaluate their indications, clinical efficacy, and safety in ENT management. A systematic search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines across five major databases:

The molecular mechanism of the adverse effects of the biological and small molecular drugs in the therapy of inflammatory skin diseases - psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

Lemiesz P, Nowowiejska-Purpurowicz J, Flisiak I. Ann Med. 2026 Dec;58(1):2611461. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2025.2611461.

Abstract

The summary of pathogenesis and comparison between
psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.

Patients with the most common chronic inflammatory dermatoses, namely psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, gained access to state-of-the-art therapeutic options providing spectacular improvement of skin lesions. Although generally safe, biological agents and small molecular drugs have also side effects which may be mild and irrelevant to the therapy course, but sometimes, of a greater extent and influencing further therapeutic decisions. In this review, we summarize the molecular explanation for the most common adverse effects of drugs used in the treatment of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Biologics used in psoriasis predominantly target TNFα, IL-17, 23, while in AD inhibit IL-4,13,31. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors represent small-molecule therapies effective in both conditions, although more prominently in AD.

Five-Grass-Pollen Sublingual Immunotherapy Drops Are Efficacious and Well Tolerated in Adults: The RHAPSODY Phase III Trial

Didier A, Juhl RG, Dalgaard T et al. Allergy. 2025 Dec 24. doi: 10.1111/all.70191.

ABSTRACT

Background

Tablet formulations of allergen extracts are widely recommended over other formulations for the sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) of respiratory allergies. However, with adequate clinical trial evidence, SLIT (liquid) drop formulations may be a relevant allergy treatment option.

Methods

Graphical Abstract

The RHAPSODY multinational, Phase III, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical study of adults with moderate-to-severe, grass-pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC) with or without asthma was conducted at 45 investigating centres in six European countries. Participants received 26 months of continuous treatment with active 5-grass-pollen SLIT drops or placebo. The primary efficacy endpoint was the average daily total combined score (TCS, comprising a symptom score and a rescue medication score) during the second peak grass pollen season (PGPS).

Results

Of the 445 randomised patients (mean ± standard deviation (range) age: 32.6 ± 9.9 (18–63); males: 55.1%), 389 completed the trial.

Baseline Monocyte Count Predicts Complete Response to Omalizumab in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: A Retrospective Analysis

Turhan İ D, Solak B (January 01, 2026) Cureus 18(1): e100556. doi:10.7759/cureus.100556

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a distressing skin condition characterized by wheals and angioedema. While omalizumab is an effective biologic therapy for antihistamine-refractory CSU, a subset of patients shows partial or no response. Identifying reliable biomarkers to predict treatment outcomes remains a significant clinical need. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between systemic inflammatory parameters, specifically monocyte counts, and the clinical response to omalizumab.

Methods: This retrospective study included 52 patients with CSU treated with omalizumab (300 mg/four weeks) for at least 12 weeks at a tertiary referral center. Patients were stratified into two groups based on their response at week 12: "Complete Response" (Urticaria Activity Score over seven days (UAS7) = 0) and "Non-Complete Response." Baseline and post-treatment complete blood count (CBC) parameters, C-reactive protein (CRP), and total IgE levels were analyzed. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of response.

Binary logistic regression analysis for independent
predictors of complete response to omalizumab

Results: Eleven patients (21.15%) achieved a complete response. The complete responder group exhibited significantly higher baseline median monocyte counts (0.68 vs. 0.40 K/µL, p = 0.001) and basophil counts (p = 0.032), but significantly lower baseline CRP levels (p = 0.003) compared to non-responders.

Rebound Pruritus and Urticaria Post-discontinuation of Chronic Cetirizine Use: A Case Report.

Seng J, Cai M, Oka P (December 27, 2025) Cureus 17(12): e100214. doi:10.7759/cureus.100214

Abstract

Timeline of events

Cetirizine is a common over-the-counter antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis, eczema, and urticaria. There have been increasing reports showing increased risk of rebound pruritus following discontinuation of long-term antihistamine use in the United States and the Netherlands. However, evidence on this condition and its management among Asian populations remains limited. We report the case of a Chinese male in his 50s with a background of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and chronic urticaria who had been regularly taking over-the-counter cetirizine for the past two years.

Abstracts of the 14th C1-inhibitor Deficiency and Angioedema Workshop

 Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 21 (Suppl 2), 55 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13223-025-00992-1

Preface

We are pleased to welcome all participants to the 14th C1-inhibitor Deficiency & Angioedema Workshop.

The aim of the Workshop is to present new research findings related to rare bradykinin-mediated angioedema disorders. These include conditions caused by hereditary or acquired C1-inhibitor deficiency, as well as those with a hereditary background but normal C1-inhibitor levels. This year, a record number of abstracts will be presented over the four-day program, including 49 oral and 58 poster presentations. In addition to previously unpublished findings, five outstanding keynote lectures will also be delivered.

On the opening afternoon, Nobel Laureate Katalin Karikó will give a special lecture on the development of the mRNA vaccine, sharing all the insights gained from the long and persistent journey that led to the production of life-saving mRNA-based vaccines.

COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination and 4-Year All-Cause Mortality Among Adults Aged 18 to 59 Years in France

Semenzato L, Le Vu S, Botton J, et al.  JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(12):e2546822. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.4682

Key Points

Question  Are COVID-19 mRNA vaccines associated with the long-term risk of all-cause mortality?

Findings  In this cohort study including 22.7 million vaccinated individuals and 5.9 million unvaccinated individuals, vaccinated individuals had a 74% lower risk of death from severe COVID-19 and no increased risk of all-cause mortality over a median follow-up of 45 months.

Meaning  These national-level results found no increased risk of 4-year all-cause mortality in individuals aged 18 to 59 years vaccinated against COVID-19, further supporting the safety of the mRNA vaccines that are being widely used worldwide.

Abstract

Importance  While several studies have assessed the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on short-term mortality, none have compared long-term mortality by vaccination status, particularly in young individuals who are less likely to experience severe disease following SARS-CoV-2 infection.

TZ1391: a computationally designed circular mRNA multi-epitope vaccine candidate against Mycobacterium tuberculosis via TLR3 immunomodulation

Ali, A., Alamri, A., Mishra, V.K. et al.  BMC Immunol (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12865-025-00795-4

Abstract

Graphical Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a major global health burden due to latent infection, multidrug resistance, and the limited efficacy of the BCG vaccine. To address this challenge, we computationally designed and evaluated a circular mRNA-based multi-epitope vaccine candidate, TZ1391. Five experimentally validated M. tuberculosis antigens (ESAT-6, CFP-10, Ag85B, PPE18, and HspX) were used to predict immunodominant cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), helper T lymphocyte (HTL), and B-cell epitopes.

Peanut Oral Immunotherapy Using 30 and 300 mg Maintenance Doses

Upton JEM, Toscano-Rivero D, Ke D, Berenjy A et al.  J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2025 Oct 16:S2213-2198(25)00958-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jaip.2025.10.007. 

Abstract

Background

The lowest dose of peanut oral immunotherapy (P-OIT) has not been determined.

Objective

To evaluate whether very low-dose oral immunotherapy (30 mg) may safely and effectively increase tolerated doses and induce immunologic changes.

Methods

Visual Summary

We prospectively enrolled peanut-allergic children reactive to 444 mg peanut protein (PP) or less in double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges (DBPCFC) and randomly assigned them to three groups. Two were double-blinded P-OIT groups escalating to 30 mg (Group 30 mg) or 300 mg (Group 300 mg) PP maintenance doses. A third group followed open-label avoidance (Group Avoid). Cumulative tolerated doses of 443 mg or greater and 1,043 mg or greater PP were compared with Group Avoid by DBPCFC planned at 1 year.

Hypocomplementemic Urticarial Vasculitis: A Case Report

Aparicio E E, Guerrero D V, Alcántara V D, et al. (December 26, 2025) Cureus 17(12): e100143. doi:10.7759/cureus.100143

Abstract

Cutaneous manifestations of hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis

Urticarial vasculitis (UV) is an inflammatory condition that affects small vessels, generating urticarial lesions with wheals lasting >24 hours. It can be divided into two main groups: normocomplementemic (NUV) and hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis (HUV). The latter is a rare condition, whose association with autoimmune diseases, primarily systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), makes its diagnosis difficult.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Induction of Confirmed Eosinophilic Esophagitis as a Side Effect of Allergen Immunotherapy: An EAACI Task Force Report

Rossi CM, Terreehorst I, Apostolidou E et al. Allergy. 2025 Dec 16. doi: 10.1111/all.70183.

ABSTRACT

Risk of bias (RoB) domains for the randomized controlled trials (RCT)
on the development of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) after allergen
immunotherapy (AIT).

The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) established a Task Force to assess the existing data on the relationship between eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and allergen immunotherapy (AIT). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to study the incidence of confirmed EoE, developing as a side effect of AIT to food or airborne allergens, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. The literature search was performed in three databases (PubMed, Embase and Scopus). Databases were searched from inception to March 31st, 2023. A total of 17 studies met the criteria for inclusion in the review.