In the strategies to prevent asthma exacerbations, allergic asthma needs specific treatment

Abstract

No generally accepted definition of asthma exacerbation is thus far available, though in 2012 an expert committee endorsed by the National Institute of Health proposed such definition as “a worsening of asthma requiring the use of systemic corticosteroids to prevent a serious outcome”. Graham and Eid reviewed the impact of asthma exacerbations, and noted that, analysing the outcomes with existing treatments, many patients with asthma remain symptomatic and experience exacerbations. This requires the introduction of new strategies to more effectively reduce the exacerbation risk, based on correct diagnosis, stopping smoking, correct inhaler technique, consistent adherence, weight management, and gaining control with the addition of medication”. Indeed, as allergic asthma is the most common form, a specific approach by allergen immunotherapy should receive more attention. Actually, the efficacy of immunotherapy in allergic asthma, by the subcutaneous or the sublingual route, is supported by robust meta-analyses. The most important allergen source causing asthma is the house dust mite, but an increasing role for molds is apparent due to the ongoing climate change.

Keywords: :

• Allergic asthma
• Asthma exacerbation
• GINA guidelines
• Omalizumab
• Allergen immunotherapy

Transparency

Declaration of funding

This editorial was not funded.

Declaration of financial/other relationships

C.I. is a scientific consultant for Stallergenes Italy s.r.l. E.R. has no significant relationships with or financial interest in any commercial companies related to this study or article.

CMRO peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.