Addressing the need for an adult allergy clinic in Malta

Abstract

The incidence of allergy is globally on the increase. Allergology is a relatively new speciality with rapidly growing needs. Many patients have co-existent allergic conditions including asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis, food and drug allergy. It is recommended internationally that patients suffering from allergic conditions including anaphylaxis are investigated, treated and followed up by an allergy specialist in a safe environment with resuscitation facilitations readily available, especially when certain investigations are performed. This article highlights the importance of the need for such an allergy service for adult patients at Mater Dei Hospital, in patients with new onset or previously undiagnosed allergic conditions as well as transition of care from paediatric services, with the intention of performing specialist investigations, providing optimal expert management and expert to allergy sufferers locally whilst improving patients’ quality of life. A multidisciplinary team approach would further improve this service.