Hymenoptera venom allergy: work disability and occupational impact of venom immunotherapy

OBJECTIVES: Little is known about the Hymenoptera venom allergy impact on work ability and the effect of venom immunotherapy (VIT) on work. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of work disability in patients treated with VIT and the effects of VIT on occupational functioning. METHODS: 181 patients, aged 18–71 years, treated with VIT while working, were investigated by questionnaire. Participants were classified into employed and self-employed and, based on work exposure to Hymenoptera, into three risk categories: high risk, occasionally high risk and low risk. Work disability was defined as having to have changed jobs/tasks and/or suffered economic loss because of Hymenoptera venom allergy. Predictors of work disability were assessed in logistic regression models. RESULTS: 31 (17%) patients reported work disability. Being self-employed and having the severe reaction at work were associated with work disability (p<0.01). Having a high-risk job for exposure to Hymenoptera was a significant predictor of work disability (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.04 to 6.75). 24% of patients referred a positive effect of VIT on work. Determinants of the positive effect of VIT on work were having a high-risk job for exposure to hymenoptera (OR 3.60, 95% CI 1.52 to 8.51) and having already concluded VIT (OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.30 to 6.14). CONCLUSIONS: Hymenoptera venom allergy could determine work disability. Patients with Hymenoptera venom allergy having a high-risk job for exposure to Hymenoptera seem to have higher risk of work disability and refer more frequently a positive effect of VIT on work.