“Allergist” is usually short for an allergist/immunologist who focuses on treating allergies and asthma and who may also treat immune disorders. An immunologist is also an allergist/immunologist, but usually one who specializes in treating immune disorders or medical research on the immune system.

Overview. Immunotherapy is a preventive treatment for allergic reactions to substances such as grass pollens, house dust mites and bee venom. Immunotherapy involves giving gradually increasing doses of the substance, or allergen, to which the person is allergic.

An immunologist treats health issues brought on by immune system problems. Also known as allergists, immunologists are doctors who diagnose, treat, and work to prevent immune system disorders. You may see an immunologist if you have food or seasonal allergies, hay fever, eczema or an autoimmune disease.

How Competitive is it to Become an Allergist/Immunologist? The specialties required to become an allergist/immunologist are less competitive specialties in matching into a residency program. Each year, thousands of hopeful medical school graduates apply for a limited number of positions in their preferred specialty.