About
Dr. James Alexander Loh is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at an allergy and immunology clinic in Port Coquitlam in Port Coquitlam, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. The clinic is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, utilizing up-to-date diagnostic tools and treatment strategies. Dr. Loh adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe, effective, and compassionate care.
He graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2010. Following medical school, he completed residency training in Internal Medicine, followed by a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. Dr. Loh is a board-certified Allergist / Immunologist with extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Loh's professional philosophy centers on accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. He is dedicated to empowering his patients with knowledge about their health, utilizing evidence-based approaches and the latest advancements in allergy and immunology. His focus is on improving quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to provide comprehensive, integrated treatment. All communication and care are provided in English, with a compassionate approach tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Dr. James Loh provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:
Food and Drug Allergies
Dr. Loh manages management involves strict avoidance of the trigger, emergency preparedness (epinephrine), and sometimes desensitization procedures.
- Common Food Allergies (e.g., Peanut, Tree Nuts, Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat, Fish, Shellfish): Requires careful dietary management, label reading, and an emergency action plan.
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) - Allergy Related: Managed with dietary elimination, topical corticosteroids, or biologics.
- Anaphylaxis (Severe Allergic Reaction): Requires immediate treatment with epinephrine and emergency medical care.
Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies
Dr. Loh manages allergic reactions to various specific triggers, including insect venoms, latex, or other less common allergens.
- 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.
- Latex Allergy: An allergic reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex, often seen in healthcare workers or individuals with multiple surgeries.
Skin Allergies and Dermatitis
Dr. Loh manages includes atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, and urticaria (hives).
- Contact Dermatitis (Allergic or Irritant): Management includes avoiding the offending substance and using topical treatments.
- Urticaria (Hives) - Acute and Chronic: Raised, itchy welts (wheals) on the skin that can appear suddenly and last for hours to days (acute) or persist for weeks or longer (chronic).
- Angioedema: Swelling deeper in the skin, often affecting the eyelids, lips, tongue, or throat, which can be life-threatening if it obstructs the airway.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. James Loh is necessary.
- Recurrent Infection Evaluation: Comprehensive investigation for patients experiencing unusually frequent, severe, or prolonged infections.
- Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Sublingual Tablets/Drops): Treatment to desensitize patients to specific allergens, reducing allergy symptoms over time.
- Management of Secondary Immunodeficiencies: Care for patients with weakened immune systems due to other medical conditions (e.g., HIV, certain cancers) or medications (e.g., chemotherapy, immunosuppressants).
- Consultation for Autoimmune Conditions with Allergic/Immunologic Overlap: Often involves a multidisciplinary team approach.
- Asthma Diagnosis and Management: Management of severe or difficult-to-control asthma.
- Management of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Includes skincare recommendations, topical medications, and identification/management of allergic triggers.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Loh.
All allergy and immunology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) 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. Loh's allergy and immunology clinic is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of North Port Coquitlam, near the Coquitlam border. The clinic serves residents of Port Coquitlam and surrounding areas, conveniently accessible via TransLink services including buses and the West Coast Express commuter train. The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, providing a professional and welcoming environment for patients seeking expert allergy and immunology care. Ample parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs. Patients can expect a supportive atmosphere dedicated to their health and well-being.
- What types of allergy testing does Dr. Loh perform?
- Dr. Loh 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.
- When should I see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Loh?
- You should consider seeing an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Loh 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.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Loh?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Loh for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). This ensures that Dr. Loh has relevant medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your specific health concerns. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 941-8713.
- Are services from Dr. Loh covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for allergies, asthma, and immune disorders provided by Dr. Loh under Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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. Loh, 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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. Loh's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- What is involved in an evaluation for a possible immunodeficiency by Dr. Loh?
- If an immunodeficiency is suspected (e.g., due to recurrent, severe, or unusual infections), Dr. Loh will conduct a thorough evaluation. This typically involves a detailed medical and family history, a physical examination, and specialized laboratory tests to assess different components of the immune system (like antibody levels, white blood cell counts and function). The goal is to identify any underlying immune system weakness and develop an appropriate management plan.
- What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Loh?
- Dr. Loh 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. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
3377 Coast Meridian Rd, Suite 201
Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 3N6
Office Phone: (604) 941-0644 | Office Fax: (604) 941-8713
Dr. Loh is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in British Columbia. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Loh, particularly for services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Loh's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/330456/Loh%2CJames