Ultrasound Guided Allergy Injections

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Child playing outdoors with parent in richmond, va representing pediatric allergy and asthma care services using ultrasound guided allergy injections

When allergy symptoms persist despite medications or traditional therapies, more targeted treatment may help provide lasting relief. Ultrasound-guided allergy injections, or Intralymphatic Immunotherapy (ILIT), are a minimally invasive procedure that offers more targeted immunotherapy. It involves guiding the injection into the lymph node with the use of ultrasound technology. The advanced imaging helps ensure safe application for ultra-targeted allergy treatment for faster allergy relief and much less treatment time than other immunotherapies.

What Are Ultrasound Guided Allergy Injections?

Intralymphatic Immunotherapy is performed by Dr. Patel, who uses ultrasound imaging technology to place the injection into the lymph node. Typically, ILIT shots are given in the lymph nodes located in the groin/front hip area. Performed with the use of a high resolution ultrasound device to visualize the lymph node just under the skin, Dr. Patel safely and precisely delivers a low-dose of the allergen into it. Like other immunotherapy methods, this ILIT helps build up the immune system’s tolerance to allergens by slowly introducing them.

What Are The Benefits Compared To Traditional Immunotherapy?

One of the biggest benefits of ILIT is just how much faster it is. Traditional allergy shots require shots every week or every few weeks for around the three to five years it takes to complete treatment. ILIT, on the other hand, requires around just three injections over a period of about three months all together. 

ILIT is able to include all allergens that are positive for the patient, similar to traditional allergy injections.

Who Can Benefit From Ultrasound Guided Allergy Injections?

Ultrasound guided allergy injections may be recommended for patients experiencing persistent allergy symptoms that have not improved with medication or other allergy treatments. Because every patient’s needs are different, Dr. Patel will first review your history to determine whether ultrasound guidance may be beneficial for you. Before beginning ultrasound guided allergy injections, you’ll first need allergy testing to determine which allergens cause reactions. 

Depending on your symptoms, ultrasound guided allergy injections may be used as part of your comprehensive allergy treatment plan to help manage frustrating allergy symptoms. 

It can treat:

  • Outdoor allergies, including pollen, grass, weeds, etc.

  • Indoor allergies including dust, molds, cats and dogs

Older couple enjoying time outdoors in richmond, va representing long-term allergy and asthma relief care

What To Expect During ILIT

Receiving ILIT at our Henrico, VA office is quick and comfortable. We understand our patients live busy lives, and we’re here to help you receive your treatment as effectively as possible.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Since ultrasound guided allergy injections are typically given in the lymph nodes, located in the groin, you’ll need to partially undress and change into a gown that we’ll provide

  • Dr. Patel will administer the injection with the guidance of the ultrasound
  • Afterwards, you’ll need to remain in the office so you can be monitored for potential reactions
  • After the waiting period, most patients can return to normal daily activities directly
  • You’ll have a follow-up visit in around four weeks for your second and third treatment

Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Guided Allergy Injections

ILIT is an innovative and modern allergy treatment that combines ultrasound imaging and allergy injections. To learn more about how this advanced treatment can enhance your allergy care, check out the FAQs below.

Does the procedure hurt?

While you may feel some mild discomfort, receiving ultrasound guided allergy injections should not be painful. It’s also quick!

Yes. While ILIT is a relatively newer allergy treatment and has not been approved by the FDA, it is considered safe. Ultrasound has been widely used in medicine for many years and does not use radiation. Plus, according to the Ohio State University, ILIT shots may prove to be even safer than traditional allergy injections.

The treatment is quick and performed during an office visit. Please note that you will need to stay in the office for 1 hour following your treatment in case an allergic reaction occurs.

Some patients notice improvement quickly, while others experience more gradual long-term relief. Most patients notice much significant improvement around three months from the last injection.

Your allergy symptoms should be less severe and noticeable after completing ILIT. Like with traditional allergy shots, you should expect your results to last for years.

Insurance does not cover this treatment. Learn more about the procedure and typical costs here.

Request Your Appointment In Henrico, VA

At Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists, we’re passionate about delivering allergy care that is both personalized and high tech. If you’re looking for a faster and more targeted approach to allergy injections, look no further. Request an appointment online at or call our office at (804) 285-7420 to get started on your path to less allergy symptoms.

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