Dr. Sara Hui Wen Leo – Allergist / Immunologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Sara Hui Wen Leo 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 Vancouver in Vancouver, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. She adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. Her focus is on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system, utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and treatment strategies to support her patients effectively.

Dr. Leo earned her medical degree (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2008. Following her medical qualification, she completed residency training in Internal Medicine, followed by a fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. She is a board-certified Allergist / Immunologist with extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology, holding key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training enables her to provide comprehensive assessment and management of complex allergic and immune conditions.

Her professional philosophy centers on accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. Dr. Leo is dedicated to empowering her patients through education about their conditions and self-management strategies. She utilizes evidence-based approaches and the latest advancements in allergy and immunology to improve quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. Collaborating closely with primary care physicians and other specialists, she ensures her patients receive comprehensive, integrated care. All interactions and consultations are conducted in English, with a strong commitment to patient health and well-being in Vancouver.

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

Skin Allergies and Dermatitis

Dr. Leo manages inflammatory skin conditions often triggered or exacerbated by allergic reactions to environmental substances, foods, or direct contact with irritants/allergens.

• 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: Requires prompt evaluation and management, including emergency preparedness.
• Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Treatment involves moisturizers, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, and trigger avoidance.

Respiratory Allergies

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

• Chronic Sinusitis (Allergy-Related): Persistent inflammation of the sinuses often linked to underlying allergies or nasal polyps.
• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Nasal inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to airborne substances, leading to sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Often coexists with allergic rhinitis.

Food and Drug Allergies

Dr. Leo manages accurate diagnosis through testing and challenges is crucial.

• 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.
• Drug Allergies (e.g., Penicillin, Sulfa Drugs): Adverse immune reactions to medications, manifesting as rashes, hives, fever, or more severe systemic reactions.
• Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES): Requires strict avoidance of trigger foods and careful reintroduction strategies.

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

• Food Allergy Diagnosis and Management: Evaluation for suspected food allergies using skin tests, blood tests, or oral food challenges (in a supervised setting).
• Evaluation and Management of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PID): May involve immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and management of complications.
• Management of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) and Sinusitis: Improving quality of life for patients with respiratory allergies.
• Insect Sting (Venom) Allergy Diagnosis and Immunotherapy: Diagnosis of allergies to stings from bees, wasps, hornets, or yellow jackets.
• Blood Tests for Allergy (e.g., Specific IgE testing): Useful when skin testing is not feasible or to supplement skin test results.
• Patch Testing for Contact Dermatitis: Helps pinpoint triggers for skin rashes.

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

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. Leo primarily practices at an allergy and immunology clinic located in Vancouver's Kensington-Cedar Cottage East neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Hotel Vancouver and accessible via TransLink services including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations in a professional, welcoming environment, offering patients comprehensive allergy and immunology care. Ample parking options are usually available in proximity to the clinic, making it easy for patients to access specialized services in a comfortable setting.

What types of allergy testing does Dr. Leo perform?

Dr. Leo 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.

How does Dr. Leo help manage food allergies?

For food allergies, Dr. Leo 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. Leo?

For most consultations with Dr. Leo 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) 336-9306.

What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Leo?

Dr. Leo 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.

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

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

A consultation with Dr. Leo 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.

3475 Commercial St
Vancouver, BC V5N 4E8

Office Phone: (604) 336-9308 | Office Fax: (604) 336-9306

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

Verify Dr. Leo's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/333357/Leo%2CSara