Single Center Phase I/IIa, Placebo Controlled, Randomized, Double-blind Preseasonal Study to Assess Clinical Efficacy and Safety of a Novel Method of Specific Allergen Immunotherapy in Grass Pollen Allergic Subjects by Epicutaneous Allergen Administration

Seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis or hay fever is a common atopic condition that is frequently seen in clinical practice. Grass pollen is the major cause of pollinosis in many parts of the world. Immunotherapy is the only treatment that may affect the natural course of allergic diseases, and it may also prevent the development of asthma in patients with allergic rhinitis. With conventional subcutaneous desensitization the duration of treatment is around 3-5 years and usually comprises around 30-100 allergen injections. As high allergen doses have to be injected, allergic side effects may occur and patients must stay under medical supervision for at least 1 hour. Transcutaneous immunization (TCI) is a needle -free technique that delivers antigens and adjuvants to potent epicutaneous immune cells. The aim of the new epicutaneous route of desensitization is to more specifically target the immune system by loading Langerhans cells with the allergen. Lower antigen doses can be applied, such that side effects are reduced.