A new, targeted approach to Allergy Treatment
Intralymphatic Immunotherapy (ILIT) is an advanced form of allergy treatment designed to help the immune system become more tolerant to specific allergens in a faster and more targeted way than traditional allergy shots.
ILIT is an option for select patients with environmental allergies who are looking for an alternative to long-term subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).
How ILIT works
Traditional allergy shots are given into the fatty tissue under the skin and typically require weekly injections for several months, followed by years of maintenance therapy.
With ILIT, very small amounts of allergen extract are injected directly into a lymph node in the inguinal area (groin area) under ultrasound guidance. Because lymph nodes are central to immune system training, this direct delivery may allow the immune system to respond more efficiently.
Our ILIT protocol involves only 3 injections total, spaced about 4 weeks apart.
Potential ILIT benefits
ILIT may offer several advantages for the right patient:
- Fewer injections compared to traditional allergy shots
- Shorter overall treatment timeline
- Targeted immune system exposure
- May improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis
- Option for patients who struggle with adherence to weekly injections
What ILIT treats
ILIT primarily treats environmental allergens, which are chosen for each patient based on individual allergy tests.
ILIT serums may include the following
- Tree pollen
- Grass pollen
- Weed pollen
- Dust mites
- Animal dander
- Mold
ILIT is not currently used for food allergies. For more information on food allergy treatment, visit our food allergy page
After allergy testing, our providers will determine whether your allergy profile is appropriate for ILIT based on the results of your allergy test, symptom severity, and medical history.
What to Expect During Treatment
- ILIT injections are performed in-office, primarily in our Plano location
- We require pre-treatment medications starting two days before each ILIT injection. Should you have any contraindications for taking the required pre-treatment medications, this may be discussed at your immunotherapy consultation.
- Ultrasound guidance is used to accurately identify a lymph node before injections.
- The procedure typically only takes a few minutes, followed by a minimum of one hour wait after each injection to monitor for reactions
Most patients tolerate ILIT well, though mild local discomfort or swelling can occur.
Is ILIT right for you?
- Have confirmed environmental allergens
- Want a shorter treatment course
- Have difficulty committing to long-term allergy shots
- Have not achieved adequate symptom control with medications alone
Your provider will review your allergy testing, symptoms, and goals to determine whether ILIT is a suitable option for you
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you are a new or existing patient, if you are interested in learning whether intralymphatic immunotherapy is right for you, please contact our office to schedule a consultation. We’re happy to discuss all available allergy treatment options and create a personalized plan for your care.