PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - J. Bousquet
AU  - U. Wahn
AU  - E. O. Meltzer
AU  - H. Fox
AU  - S. Hedgecock
AU  - K. Thomas
AU  - A. Fowler-Taylor
TI  - Omalizumab: an anti-immunoglobulin E antibody for the treatment of allergic respiratory diseases
AID  - 10.1183/09059180.00010701
DP  - 2008 Apr 01
TA  - European Respiratory Review
PG  - 1--9
VI  - 17
IP  - 107
4099  - http://err.ersjournals.com/content/17/107/1.short
4100  - http://err.ersjournals.com/content/17/107/1.full
SO  - EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW2008 Apr 01; 17
AB  - Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is central to the development of allergic diseases. Cross-linking of cell-bound IgE by the allergen leads to the initiation of the inflammatory cascade. Omalizumab, an anti-IgE antibody, forms complexes with free IgE, thereby inhibiting the allergic reaction before its commencement. A survey of the clinical trials performed on omalizumab indicated that this anti-IgE antibody is efficacious and well tolerated in the treatment of separate and concomitant asthma and rhinitis. In patients with poorly controlled asthma, omalizumab reduced the asthma exacerbation and emergency visit rate, along with improving the quality of life. The improvement in asthma control was associated with a reduction of inhaled and oral corticosteroids. Improved nasal symptom scores and a reduced need for antihistamines were observed in patients with allergic rhinitis. Omalizumab was also proven to be effective as an add-on therapy for concomitant asthma and rhinitis. In conclusion, omalizumab provides an integrated approach for the treatment and management of allergic respiratory diseases.