Efficacy and safety of subcutaneous immunotherapy combined with omalizumab in children with dust mite-induced asthma

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the benefits of combining omalizumab with specific immunotherapy (SCIT) in the treatment of children with bronchial asthma.

Methods

In this study, 83 children with asthma were treated at the Allergy Department of Qingdao University from January 2019 to February 2020. Participants were divided into three groups: SCIT, combination (omalizumab + SCIT), and control (standard asthma medications). We assessed Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, and lung function at baseline, 24 wk, and 48 wk. Additionally, asthma medication scores were compared at 24 and 48 wk. Adverse reactions were monitored in both the SCIT and combination groups.

Results

The combination group demonstrated lower ACQ scores at both 24 and 48 wk, and improved VAS scores at 48 wk compared to the other groups. Additionally, lung function parameters (FEV1 and FEF50) showed significant improvement in the combination group. Reduced asthma medication scores were noted in the combination group at 24 and 48 wk. Local adverse reactions were fewer in the combination group, and no systemic adverse reactions were reported.

Conclusion

Combining omalizumab with SCIT provides quicker asthma control, lowers medication requirements, and enhances lung function with fewer adverse effects, making it a safe and effective treatment for children with bronchial asthma.

Keywords:

• Asthma
• dust mite
• efficacy
• omalizumab
• specific immunotherapy

Declaration of interest

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.