Treatment with a combination of anti-IgE and specific immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis and asthma

Abstract

Novel therapies that interfere specifically with immunological mechanisms underlying allergen-induced pathology are currently in clinical evaluation. Among these is anti-IgE, which directly targets IgE serum antibodies, thus inhibiting the central mechanism of immediate type hypersensitivity reactions. Application of anti-IgE antibodies effectively reduces IgE serum levels regardless of allergen specificity. It has been successfully tested in patients with allergic rhinitis, asthma and food allergy, showing significant efficacy in reducing symptom scores and use of rescue medications. Anti-IgE therapy is limited by high costs and the requirements for permanent or every-season treatment. The advantage of specific immune therapy (SIT) is the potential to alter the course of the disease, which has been demonstrated in patients with allergic rhinitis, insect venom allergy and, to a lesser degree, with asthma. The broader application of SIT is restricted by sometimes life-threatening side-effects. Here, we summarize the results of clinical trials investigating the effects of combination therapy with anti-IgE and SIT in patients with rhinitis and asthma. These studies show that combination of anti-IgE plus SIT may be beneficial for the treatment of allergic diseases by improving efficacy and limiting side effects.