Biologic Therapies Available for Pediatric Patients With Asthma

MONDAY, Oct. 18, 2021 (HealthDay News) — Biologic therapies are available for pediatric patients with asthma and allergic skin diseases, according to a clinical report published online Oct. 18 in Pediatrics.

Heather Hoch De Keyser, M.D., from the University of Colorado Anschutz, and colleagues reviewed the current literature on biologics in the treatment of children with asthma and allergic skin disease.

The authors note that there are currently multiple biologics available to treat moderate-to-severe persistent asthma in children and adults. The anti-immunoglobulin (Ig) E agent omalizumab is indicated for those aged 6 years and older with moderate-to-severe persistent asthma, positive allergy testing, and incomplete control with an inhaled corticosteroid. Mepolizumab and benralizumab, both anti-interleukin (IL)-5 agents, and dupilumab, an anti-IL-4 receptor agent, are indicated for severe eosinophilic asthma that is unresponsive to other Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) steps 4 to 5 therapies in individuals aged 12 years or older. Reslizumab, another anti-IL-5 agent, is indicated for severe eosinophilic asthma in those aged 18 years or older. Providers should be aware of the risk for anaphylaxis with many biologics, particularly omalizumab and reslizumab. Biologics also are being explored for the treatment of allergic skin diseases, such as urticaria and atopic dermatitis, in children.

“Researchers should focus on appropriate biomarkers (including IgE and circulating eosinophils, as well as further biomarkers yet to be determined), as well as other patient-focused factors to allow the choice of the right biological for the right patient and at the right time,” the authors write.

Two authors disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry.

Abstract/Full Text