Abstract
Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis is common and affects an ever increasing number of people. Current treatments are partially effective, but many patients have significant residual symptoms. Allergen immunotherapy can reduce the level of clinical symptoms and prevent the development of associated complications. Care is needed with patient selection and in the practical aspects of allergen administration. Future trends are likely to include the use of recombinant allergens, modified allergens and adjuvants to achieve efficacy with shorter courses of treatment and to reduce the risk of systemic side effects.