Description
About Dr. Francine Cloutier-Marchand
Dr. Francine Cloutier-Marchand is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at CHUM, Dép d'allergie 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 each patient receives comprehensive and personalized treatment. Dr. Cloutier-Marchand's approach combines up-to-date diagnostic tools with evidence-based management strategies, fostering a supportive environment for those seeking relief from allergic and immunologic disorders.
She holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has completed extensive postgraduate training, including a residency in Internal Medicine or Pediatrics followed by a fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. With over 46 years of experience practicing as an Allergist / Immunologist since 1978, she has developed a deep expertise in diagnosing and managing complex allergy and immune system conditions. Dr. Cloutier-Marchand is certified and fully qualified to provide specialized care in Quebec, demonstrating her commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in her field.
Her professional philosophy centers on accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. She is dedicated to empowering patients through education about their conditions and self-management strategies, utilizing the latest advancements in allergy and immunology. Dr. Cloutier-Marchand is committed to improving 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, and offers consultations and treatments in French to accommodate her diverse patient community.
Allergic & Immunologic Conditions Addressed by Dr. Francine Cloutier-Marchand
Dr. Francine Cloutier-Marchand provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:
Food and Drug Allergies
Dr. Cloutier-Marchand manages adverse immune reactions to specific foods or medications, which can range from mild symptoms to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
- Anaphylaxis (Severe Allergic Reaction): Common triggers include foods, insect stings, medications, and latex.
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) - Allergy Related: Managed with dietary elimination, topical corticosteroids, or biologics.
- Drug Allergies (e.g., Penicillin, Sulfa Drugs): Identification of safe alternatives or drug desensitization may be necessary.
Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies
Dr. Cloutier-Marchand manages allergic reactions to various specific triggers, including insect venoms, latex, or other less common allergens.
- Insect Sting Allergies (Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket, Fire Ant): Diagnosis involves skin testing or blood tests for venom-specific IgE.
- Alpha-Gal Allergy (Red Meat Allergy): Symptoms typically occur 3-6 hours after meat consumption.
- Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Conditions involving abnormal accumulation or activation of mast cells, leading to symptoms like flushing, itching, hives, abdominal pain, and anaphylaxis.
Immunodeficiency Disorders
Dr. Cloutier-Marchand manages patients who often experience recurrent, severe, or unusual infections, requiring specialized diagnosis and management.
- Recurrent Infections (Evaluation for Underlying Immunodeficiency): May involve detailed immunological testing.
- Humoral (Antibody) Deficiencies: Leads to increased susceptibility to bacterial infections, especially of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.
- Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): Managed with immunoglobulin replacement, prophylactic antibiotics, and sometimes stem cell transplant.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Francine Cloutier-Marchand is necessary.
Allergy and Immunology Services by Dr. Francine Cloutier-Marchand
- Insect Sting (Venom) Allergy Diagnosis and Immunotherapy: Venom immunotherapy (allergy shots) to prevent severe systemic reactions (anaphylaxis) to future stings.
- Management of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) and Sinusitis: Management of chronic sinusitis related to allergies.
- Blood Tests for Allergy (e.g., Specific IgE testing): Helps identify triggers for allergic reactions.
- Comprehensive Allergy and Immunology Consultation: Development of personalized diagnostic and management plans.
- Consultation for Autoimmune Conditions with Allergic/Immunologic Overlap: Providing expertise in cases where autoimmune diseases present with significant allergic or immunologic features.
- Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Sublingual Tablets/Drops): Includes subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) for environmental allergens and insect stings.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Cloutier-Marchand.
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.
Practice Location & Contact
Dr. Cloutier-Marchand practices primarily at the CHUM, Dép d'allergie located in Montréal's Ville-Marie East (Quartier Latin, Village) neighborhood. The clinic is situated close to St. Mary's Hospital Center 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 welcoming environment for patients seeking allergy and immunology care. Convenient parking options are usually available in proximity to the clinic, ensuring easy access for patients.
Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy and Immunology
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Cloutier-Marchand?
- For most consultations with Dr. Cloutier-Marchand 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) 481-1235.
- What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Cloutier-Marchand?
- Dr. Cloutier-Marchand treats a wide spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions. Common ones include allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, food allergies, drug allergies, insect sting allergies, atopic dermatitis (eczema), urticaria (hives), angioedema, and primary immunodeficiency diseases. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- When should I see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Cloutier-Marchand?
- A consultation with Dr. Cloutier-Marchand is recommended if you need specialized allergy testing, are considering allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops), have a suspected immunodeficiency, or require expert management for conditions like anaphylaxis, chronic urticaria, or complex allergic disorders. Your primary care physician can help determine if a referral is appropriate.
- Does Dr. Cloutier-Marchand offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?
- Yes, Allergist / Immunologists like Dr. Cloutier-Marchand 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. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- What is involved in an evaluation for a possible immunodeficiency by Dr. Cloutier-Marchand?
- An evaluation for immunodeficiency by Dr. Cloutier-Marchand aims to determine if your immune system is functioning properly. It includes reviewing your history of infections, performing a physical exam, and ordering specific blood tests to measure immune cells and their activity. This helps to diagnose conditions like primary immunodeficiencies.
Practice & Licensing Information
CHUM, Dép d'allergie
1000 rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1
Office Phone: (514) 890-8000 | Office Fax: (514) 481-1235
Dr. Cloutier-Marchand 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. Cloutier-Marchand, particularly for services covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
Verify Dr. Cloutier-Marchand's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=72285