[New aspects in the treatment of allergic asthma (author's transl)].

Preventive measures in atopic persons comprise genetic advice, identification of, and prevention of contact with, the more common antigens in infancy and, later on, avoidance of exposure to antigens during the flowering season. In view of the complexity of the asthmatic attack the diagnosis must include all relevant parameters as otherwise consistent treatment is impossible. The only causal therapy is avoidance of exposure to antigens and also to unspecific (physicochemical) noxae which are nearly always superimposed. The value of specific immunotherapy varies according to the antigen or combination of antigens. The final verdict has to await the results of controlled studies in carefully classified and analysed groups, including investigations of immune parameters and uninterrupted registration of exposure to antigens. Until the efficiency, indications and mode of application of immunotherapy have been clearly established desensitization is preferable, provided the allergen has been identified and proved to be active, and exposure to the antigen cannot be avoided. The relatively high success rate obtained with placebos is presumably attributable to concurrent symptomatic treatment and avoidance of contact with the antigen. The already broad spectrum of adjuvent therapy is being constantly and successfully enlarged. Attempts to stimulate the production of antigen-specific suppressor T-cells by denatured antigens, and thereby prevent IgE production, are promising. Until a causal anti-allergy therapy has been developed a carefully and individually planned somatic and psychic polytherapy must remain the rule.