Dr. Assia Hassaine is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at the Clinique d'allergie et d'asthme de Montréal in Montréal, QC, she is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based treatment. Her focus is on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system, utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.
She holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution, followed by comprehensive residency training in Internal Medicine or Pediatrics. She completed a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy, gaining over 12 years of experience practicing as an Allergist / Immunologist since 2012. Her rigorous postgraduate training and certifications confirm her expertise in this field, allowing her to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. She is committed to continuous professional development and staying current with advancements in allergy and immunology.
Dr. Hassaine's professional philosophy emphasizes accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. She strives to empower her patients through education about their conditions and self-management strategies. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based medicine and the latest scientific research, aiming to enhance quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to provide comprehensive, integrated care. Fluent in French, Dr. Hassaine offers allergy and immunology consultations and treatments in an empathetic and respectful manner, dedicated to improving her patients' health and well-being in Montréal.
Dr. Assia Hassaine provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:
Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies
Dr. Hassaine manages accurate diagnosis is key to implementing effective avoidance and emergency treatment strategies.
- Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Managed with medications to control mast cell mediator release and symptoms.
- Insect Sting Allergies (Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket, Fire Ant): Venom immunotherapy is highly effective in preventing future severe reactions.
- Alpha-Gal Allergy (Red Meat Allergy): Often associated with tick bites.
Immunodeficiency Disorders
Dr. Hassaine manages can be primary (genetic) or secondary (acquired due to other conditions or treatments).
- Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): Managed with immunoglobulin replacement, prophylactic antibiotics, and sometimes stem cell transplant.
- Secondary Immunodeficiencies (e.g., due to HIV, Medications): Strategies focus on supporting the immune system and managing the primary cause.
- Recurrent Infections (Evaluation for Underlying Immunodeficiency): Investigation of individuals who suffer from infections more frequently, severely, or for longer durations than expected.
Respiratory Allergies
Dr. Hassaine manages allergic reactions affecting the airways, commonly triggered by airborne allergens like pollens, dust mites, molds, and animal dander.
- Chronic Sinusitis (Allergy-Related): Persistent inflammation of the sinuses often linked to underlying allergies or nasal polyps.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye) due to allergens, causing itchy, red, watery, and swollen eyes.
- Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Nasal inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to airborne substances, leading to sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Assia Hassaine is necessary.
- Management of Urticaria (Hives) and Angioedema: Identification of potential triggers (allergic or non-allergic).
- Consultation for Autoimmune Conditions with Allergic/Immunologic Overlap: Providing expertise in cases where autoimmune diseases present with significant allergic or immunologic features.
- Management of Secondary Immunodeficiencies: Focus on preventing and treating opportunistic infections.
- Food Allergy Diagnosis and Management: Development of food allergen avoidance plans and emergency action plans for anaphylaxis (epinephrine auto-injector prescription).
- Management of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) and Sinusitis: Treatment plans for nasal allergies, including allergen avoidance, medications (antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids), and immunotherapy.
- Evaluation and Management of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PID): May involve immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and management of complications.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Hassaine.
All allergy and immunology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) and relevant international guidelines. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Hassaine practices at the Clinique d'allergie et d'asthme de Montréal, a well-established allergy and immunology clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of Montréal. The clinic is conveniently situated near Schwartz's Deli, a local landmark, and is easily accessible via the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), including Metro and bus routes. The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, providing a professional and supportive environment for patients seeking expert allergy and immunology care. Ample parking options are usually available in proximity to the clinic, ensuring easy access for patients from the Montréal area.
- How does Dr. Hassaine help manage food allergies?
- Dr. Hassaine provides comprehensive management for food allergies. This includes accurate diagnosis through testing (skin tests, blood tests, or oral food challenges), developing strict allergen avoidance strategies, educating on label reading, and creating an emergency action plan, including the prescription and training for epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen®). She may also discuss emerging therapies like oral immunotherapy if applicable. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- When should I see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Hassaine?
- You should consider seeing an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Hassaine if you experience persistent allergy symptoms (nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes), asthma that is difficult to control, recurrent infections, severe reactions to foods, insect stings, or medications, or have chronic skin conditions like eczema or hives. A referral from your family doctor is typically required.
- Are services from Dr. Hassaine covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for allergies, asthma, and immune disorders provided by Dr. Hassaine under Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) is covered. This typically includes appointments and medically indicated diagnostic tests. However, some specific treatments like allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops) or certain advanced biologics may have varying coverage criteria or require special authorization. Consultations with an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Hassaine, as well as medically necessary diagnostic tests (e.g., skin prick tests for common allergens) and management of conditions like asthma or immunodeficiencies, are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). However, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets/drops) and some newer biologic medications may have specific coverage criteria or require special authorization. It is recommended to confirm coverage details with Dr. Hassaine's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- What does an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Hassaine specialize in?
- Dr. Hassaine is an Allergist and Immunologist, a physician expert in the body's immune system and its reactions. She manages a wide range of conditions from common allergies and asthma to complex immune deficiency diseases and related systemic disorders. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- What types of allergy testing does Dr. Hassaine perform?
- Dr. Hassaine may perform several types of allergy tests to help identify your specific triggers. The most common is skin prick testing, where small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin. Blood tests (like Specific IgE tests) may also be used. For contact dermatitis, patch testing might be done. Depending on the suspected allergy (e.g., food or drug), supervised oral challenges could be considered in a controlled setting. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hassaine?
- For most consultations with Dr. Hassaine that are medically necessary and covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), a referral from your family doctor is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. Some specialized allergy clinics or services might have different referral processes, so it's always good to check with their office. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (514) 739-8985.
- Does Dr. Hassaine offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?
- Yes, Allergist / Immunologists like Dr. Hassaine often prescribe and manage allergen immunotherapy. This treatment, available as allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy or SCIT) or under-the-tongue tablets/drops (sublingual immunotherapy or SLIT for certain allergens), helps your body build tolerance to specific allergens over time, reducing symptoms of hay fever, allergic asthma, or insect sting allergies. She can determine if immunotherapy is a suitable option for you. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
Clinique d'allergie et d'asthme de Montréal
208-1100 av Beaumont
Montréal, QC H3P 3H5
Office Phone: (514) 739-4989 | Office Fax: (514) 739-8985
Dr. Hassaine is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in Quebec. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Hassaine, particularly for services covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
Verify Dr. Hassaine's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=12188