Dr. Marjan Nassiri – Allergist / Immunologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Marjan Nassiri is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at the Allergy Clinic in Kelowna, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. The clinic adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive thorough and compassionate care. Her practice is focused on accurately diagnosing and effectively managing a wide range of allergic and immunologic disorders, utilizing up-to-date diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatment strategies.

Dr. Nassiri graduated with an MD from Teheran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services in 1999. Following her initial medical qualification, she completed residency training in Internal Medicine, followed by a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. She is a board-certified Allergist / Immunologist with extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology. She holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional excellence and ongoing education.

Her professional philosophy centers on delivering precise diagnosis and personalized management plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Nassiri is dedicated to empowering her patients through education about their conditions and self-management strategies. She utilizes the latest advancements in allergy and immunology, focusing on improving quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. She values collaborative care and works closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to provide comprehensive, integrated treatment. Fluent in Persian (Farsi), she ensures clear communication with her diverse patient population in Kelowna, emphasizing compassionate and patient-centered care.

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

Respiratory Allergies

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

• 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.
• Allergic Asthma: Requires identification of allergic triggers and a comprehensive asthma management plan.

Food and Drug Allergies

Dr. Nassiri 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): Immune system reactions to specific food proteins, causing symptoms like hives, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, or anaphylaxis.
• Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) - Allergy Related: Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, food impaction, and abdominal pain.
• Anaphylaxis (Severe Allergic Reaction): Requires immediate treatment with epinephrine and emergency medical care.

Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies

Dr. Nassiri manages accurate diagnosis is key to implementing effective avoidance and emergency treatment strategies.

• Latex Allergy: Requires strict avoidance of latex-containing products.
• Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Diagnosis can be complex and may involve tryptase levels and bone marrow biopsy.
• 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. Marjan Nassiri is necessary.

• Evaluation and Management of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PID): May involve immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and management of complications.
• Comprehensive Allergy and Immunology Consultation: Thorough evaluation of allergic and immunologic conditions, including detailed patient history and physical examination.
• Management of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Strategies to control flare-ups and improve skin health.
• Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Sublingual Tablets/Drops): Includes subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) for environmental allergens and insect stings.
• Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies (Specialized Centres): Aims to increase the threshold for reaction and reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions.
• Patch Testing for Contact Dermatitis: Diagnostic test to identify substances causing allergic contact dermatitis (e.g., metals, fragrances, preservatives).

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

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 international guidelines. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Nassiri practices at the Allergy Clinic located in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently situated near Okanagan College, making it accessible for students and residents alike. Patients can reach the clinic easily via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, providing a professional and supportive environment for patients seeking allergy and immunology care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs. The clinic offers a welcoming setting dedicated to high-quality, patient-centered care for a wide spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions.

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

An evaluation for immunodeficiency by Dr. Nassiri 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.

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

A consultation with Dr. Nassiri 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.

What types of allergy testing does Dr. Nassiri perform?

Dr. Nassiri 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. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

Are services from Dr. Nassiri covered by provincial health insurance?

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

How does Dr. Nassiri help manage food allergies?

For food allergies, Dr. Nassiri focuses on precise diagnosis, clear guidance on avoiding the trigger food(s), and ensuring you are prepared for accidental exposures with an emergency plan and epinephrine. Ongoing support and education for patients and families are key components of care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Nassiri?

For most consultations with Dr. Nassiri 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 (778) 753-7426.

What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Nassiri?

As an Allergist and Immunologist, Dr. Nassiri manages numerous conditions related to the immune system. These frequently include environmental allergies, food sensitivities and allergies, medication reactions, chronic sinus problems, skin rashes like eczema, and disorders where the immune system is underactive or overactive. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

Allergy Clinic
204 - 3030 Pandosy Street
Kelowna, BC V1Y 0C4

Office Phone: (778) 753-7424 | Office Fax: (778) 753-7426 | Practice Website: http://columbiasquareclinic.com/

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

Verify Dr. Nassiri's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/344790/Nassiri%2CMarjan