Description
About Dr. Teresa Wai Chong Pun
Dr. Teresa Wai Chong Pun 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 Calgary in Calgary, AB, she is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) to ensure quality and safety in her practice. Dr. Pun’s focus is on delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatment strategies.
Graduating with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Toronto in 2007, Dr. Pun completed her residency training in Internal Medicine, followed by a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. She is an experienced Allergist / Immunologist with extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology, ensuring she is well-equipped to diagnose and manage complex allergic and immunologic disorders. Dr. Pun holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Allergist / Immunologist in Alberta, including the relevant credentials from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).
Her professional philosophy centers on accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. She is dedicated to empowering her patients with knowledge about their health and self-management strategies, utilizing the latest advancements in allergy and immunology. Dr. Pun’s goal is to improve her patients' quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to provide comprehensive and integrated care. Fluent in Cantonese and French, she ensures clear and compassionate communication with her diverse patient population, always prioritizing their health and well-being.
Allergic & Immunologic Conditions Addressed by Dr. Teresa Pun
Dr. Teresa Pun provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:
Respiratory Allergies
Dr. Pun manages management focuses on allergen avoidance, medications, and immunotherapy to control symptoms and improve breathing.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Managed with eye drops (antihistamine, mast cell stabilizer) and allergen avoidance.
- Chronic Sinusitis (Allergy-Related): Persistent inflammation of the sinuses often linked to underlying allergies or nasal polyps.
- Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Can be seasonal (e.g., pollen allergies) or perennial (e.g., dust mite allergies).
Skin Allergies and Dermatitis
Dr. Pun manages inflammatory skin conditions often triggered or exacerbated by allergic reactions to environmental substances, foods, or direct contact with irritants/allergens.
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Treatment involves moisturizers, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, and trigger avoidance.
- Contact Dermatitis (Allergic or Irritant): Management includes avoiding the offending substance and using topical treatments.
- Urticaria (Hives) - Acute and Chronic: Can be triggered by allergens, infections, medications, or be idiopathic (unknown cause).
Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies
Dr. Pun manages venom immunotherapy can be life-saving for severe insect sting allergies.
- Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Diagnosis can be complex and may involve tryptase levels and bone marrow biopsy.
- Latex Allergy: An allergic reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex, often seen in healthcare workers or individuals with multiple surgeries.
- Alpha-Gal Allergy (Red Meat Allergy): Often associated with tick bites.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Teresa Pun is necessary.
Allergy and Immunology Services by Dr. Teresa Wai Chong Pun
- Patch Testing for Contact Dermatitis: Helps pinpoint triggers for skin rashes.
- Recurrent Infection Evaluation: Development of strategies to reduce infection frequency and severity.
- Comprehensive Allergy and Immunology Consultation: Thorough evaluation of allergic and immunologic conditions, including detailed patient history and physical examination.
- Evaluation and Management of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PID): May involve immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and management of complications.
- Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Sublingual Tablets/Drops): Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) tablets or drops for certain pollens and dust mites.
- 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. Pun.
All allergy and immunology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) 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. Pun practices at an allergy and immunology clinic located in the vibrant southwest neighborhood of Calgary, including Killarney, Glendale, and Glenbrook. The clinic is easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes, and is conveniently situated near Stampede Park Access. Patients can expect a professional and welcoming environment equipped for allergy testing and consultations. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots to accommodate all patients. The clinic is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care in a supportive setting, ensuring comfort and convenience for those seeking allergy and immunology services in Calgary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy and Immunology
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Pun?
- For most consultations with Dr. Pun that are medically necessary and covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), 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. Please have your referring doctor's office contact Dr. Pun's clinic for referral instructions.
- Does Dr. Pun offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?
- Allergen immunotherapy is a key treatment offered by specialists like Dr. Pun for certain allergies. Whether through allergy shots or sublingual options, this therapy aims to modify your immune response to allergens, leading to long-term symptom relief. Dr. Pun would assess your specific allergies and discuss the benefits and process of immunotherapy if it's appropriate.
- How does Dr. Pun help manage food allergies?
- Dr. Pun provides comprehensive management for food allergies. This includes accurate diagnosis through testing (skin tests, blood tests, or oral food challenges), developing strict allergen avoidance strategies, educating on label reading, and creating an emergency action plan, including the prescription and training for epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen®). She may also discuss emerging therapies like oral immunotherapy if applicable. 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. Pun?
- A consultation with Dr. Pun 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 does an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Pun specialize in?
- An Allergist / Immunologist, such as Dr. Pun, 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. She is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
Practice & Licensing Information
103-49 Richard Way SW
Calgary, AB T3E 7M8
Office Phone: (403) 910-5315
Dr. Pun is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in Alberta. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Pun, particularly for services covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
Verify Dr. Pun's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=893f8708-bfd1-4911-b5fd-03d6cd2be974&i=1180