A new Italian study confirms that maintenance venom immunotherapy (VIT) is safe and effective during pregnancy, offering critical reassurance for clinicians managing patients with Hymenoptera venom allergy.
Researchers across 14 allergy centers in Italy tracked 68 women-86 pregnancies-who were already on VIT when they became pregnant. The study assessed rates of miscarriage, preterm birth, and adverse reactions.
Results showed spontaneous abortion in 12.8% of pregnancies and preterm birth in 8.1%-both consistent with general population rates. No VIT-related factors were linked to negative outcomes. Only one mild, self-limiting reaction to the treatment was reported.
Five women experienced accidental stings during pregnancy; only one had a large local reaction, with no systemic reactions or complications.
The authors emphasize that untreated venom allergy poses serious risks, including severe anaphylaxis, to both mother and fetus. The findings support continuing well-tolerated maintenance VIT during pregnancy.