Evaluating a new method to identify vespid venom allergy risks
Is the BAT Inhibition Able to Replace Sting Challenges?
This study is testing a new blood test to see if it can help identify people at risk for severe allergic reactions to wasp and hornet stings without having to actually sting them.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 219 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical University of Graz Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | immunotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Graz) |
| Trial ID | NCT04438525 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether BAT inhibition can serve as an alternative to traditional sting challenges for assessing vespid venom allergy. It aims to identify patients at risk of severe allergic reactions without the need for live insect stings, which are currently limited to a few centers in Europe. Participants will undergo blood donation and may be subjected to sting challenges as part of the evaluation process. The goal is to improve access to testing and enhance patient safety in managing insect venom allergies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 to 70 who are currently receiving or have previously received vespid venom immunotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have autoimmune diseases, or have uncontrolled cardiovascular or asthma conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a safer and more accessible method for identifying patients at risk of severe allergic reactions to insect stings.
How similar studies have performed: While traditional sting challenges are well-established, this specific approach using BAT inhibition is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Legally competent male and female subjects who are currently treated or who have been treated with vespid venom immunotherapy * Age ≥18 and ≤70 years * Written consent of the participant after being informed Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Autoimmune disease * Uncontrolled cardiovascular disease * Uncontrolled asthma
Where this trial is running
Graz
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Medical University of Graz — Graz, Austria (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Gunter J Sturm, MD, PhD
- Email: gunter.sturm@medunigraz.at
- Phone: +4331638580318
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.