Current and future applications of the anti-IgE antibody omalizumab

Review

(2605) Views  (516) Full article downloads

Authors: Cristoforo Incorvaia, Marina Mauro, Gian Galeazzo Riario-Sforza, Franco Frati, Francesco Tarantini, Maurizio Caserini

Published Date March 2008 Volume 2008:2(1) Pages 67 - 73

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/BTT.S1800

Cristoforo Incorvaia¹, Marina Mauro², Gian Galeazzo Riario-Sforza¹,Franco Frati³, Francesco Tarantini⁴, Maurizio Caserini⁴

¹Allergy/Pulmonary rehabilitation, ICP Hospital, Milan, Italy; ²Allergy Unit, Sant’Anna Hospital, Como, Italy; ³University Department of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Pediatric Sciences, Perugia, Italy; ⁴Respiratory Clinical Research, Novartis Farma S.p.A., Origgio, Italy

Abstract: IgE antibodies are a pivotal factor in pathophysiology of allergic diseases, and the possibility of reducing their level by anti-IgE has long been envisioned. Following several attempts, an effective biologic agent was obtained with the recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody (rhuMAb)-E25, known as omalizumab. A number of controlled clinical trials demonstrated its efficacy and safety in the treatment of severe allergic asthma uncontrolled by standard drug treatment with maximal recommended doses, and treatment with omalizumab is currently included in international guidelines on asthma management. Other studies reported a clear effectiveness also in allergic rhinitis, but the cost of the anti-IgE treatment suggests its use in patients with rhinitis concomitant with asthma. Other indications to be further investigated are skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis and IgE-mediated urticaria, as well as adverse reactions to foods, with a particularly important role in preventing food-induced anaphylaxis. Finally, there are data indicating the usefulness of omalizumab when used in combination with allergen specific immunotherapy, in terms of reducing the adverse reactions to treatment and increasing the clinical efficacy.

Keywords: IgE, anti-IgE, omalizumab, allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, food allergy, allergen immunotherapy

Other articles by Dr Cristoforo Incorvaia