Dr. Manbir Singh Sandhu – Allergist / Immunologist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Manbir Singh Sandhu 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 Surrey in Surrey, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives thorough and personalized treatment. As an Allergist / Immunologist, he focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system. The clinic is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, utilizing up-to-date diagnostic tools and treatment strategies.

Dr. Sandhu graduated with his MD from Ross University in 2005. Following his medical qualification, he completed residency training in Internal Medicine and subsequently pursued a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. With extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology, he is an experienced Allergist / Immunologist with a comprehensive understanding of the field. He has completed rigorous training and holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Allergist / Immunologist in British Columbia, ensuring that his clinical skills meet the highest professional standards.

His professional philosophy centers on accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. Dr. Sandhu is committed to empowering his patients with knowledge about their condition and self-management strategies. He utilizes evidence-based approaches and the latest advancements in allergy and immunology to improve patient outcomes. His focus is on enhancing quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to deliver comprehensive, integrated treatment. Additionally, he is proficient in Punjabi (Panjabi), ensuring clear communication with all patients and fostering a welcoming, supportive environment.

Dr. Manbir Sandhu provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:

Immunodeficiency Disorders

Dr. Sandhu manages patients often experience recurrent, severe, or unusual infections, requiring specialized diagnosis and management.

• Secondary Immunodeficiencies (e.g., due to HIV, Medications): Requires careful monitoring and management to prevent and treat opportunistic infections.
• Humoral (Antibody) Deficiencies: Often treated with immunoglobulin replacement therapy.
• Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): Examples include Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), X-linked Agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID).

Respiratory Allergies

Dr. Sandhu manages includes allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and allergic asthma.

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Nasal inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to airborne substances, leading to sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
• Chronic Sinusitis (Allergy-Related): Management involves treating the allergic component and may include nasal corticosteroids or saline rinses.
• 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.

Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies

Dr. Sandhu manages venom immunotherapy can be life-saving for severe insect sting allergies.

• Latex Allergy: Symptoms can range from skin irritation to anaphylaxis upon contact or inhalation of latex particles.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Manbir Sandhu is necessary.

• Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Sublingual Tablets/Drops): Includes subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) for environmental allergens and insect stings.
• Asthma Diagnosis and Management: Comprehensive care for asthma, including diagnosis, personalized treatment plans with inhalers and other medications.
• Insect Sting (Venom) Allergy Diagnosis and Immunotherapy: Prescription of epinephrine auto-injectors.
• Food Allergy Diagnosis and Management: Guidance on label reading and navigating food environments.
• 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).
• Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies (Specialized Centres): Aims to increase the threshold for reaction and reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Sandhu.

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. Sandhu practices at an allergy and immunology clinic located in Surrey's West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Future SkyTrain Extension, providing easy access via TransLink, including SkyTrain's Expo Line and bus services. The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, offering a professional and welcoming environment for patients seeking allergy and immunology care. Ample parking options are usually available nearby, making the clinic accessible and convenient for residents in Surrey and surrounding areas.

What is involved in an evaluation for a possible immunodeficiency by Dr. Sandhu?

If an immunodeficiency is suspected (e.g., due to recurrent, severe, or unusual infections), Dr. Sandhu 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.

When should I see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Sandhu?

You should consider seeing an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Sandhu 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. Sandhu covered by provincial health insurance?

Most specialized medical care for allergies, asthma, and immune disorders provided by Dr. Sandhu 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. Sandhu, 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. Sandhu's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Does Dr. Sandhu offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?

Yes, Allergist / Immunologists like Dr. Sandhu 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. He 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.

What types of allergy testing does Dr. Sandhu perform?

To diagnose allergies, Dr. Sandhu can utilize various testing methods. These often include skin tests for common environmental and food allergens, blood tests to measure allergy antibodies, and sometimes patch tests for skin contact allergies. The specific tests chosen will depend on your medical history and symptoms.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Sandhu?

For most consultations with Dr. Sandhu that are medically necessary and covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), 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 (604) 498-1656.

What does an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Sandhu specialize in?

An Allergist / Immunologist, such as Dr. Sandhu, is a medical doctor (MD) who has specialized training in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergies, asthma, and immunologic disorders. This includes conditions like hay fever, food allergies, eczema, hives, primary immunodeficiencies, and autoimmune diseases with immunologic components. a Allergist / Immunologist, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

710-13737 96 Ave, Allergy and Asthma Clinic, City Center 1
Surrey, BC V3V 0C6

Office Phone: (604) 498-1655 | Office Fax: (604) 498-1656

Dr. Sandhu 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. Sandhu, particularly for services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Sandhu's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/338211/Sandhu%2CManbir