Anti-IgE Monoclonal Antibody for Treatment of Al ler gic Rhinitis

Abstract

Anti-IgE Monoclonal Antibody for Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis

Girapong Ungkhara MD

Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, University of Bangkok Metropolis

Allergic rhinitis is one of the important problems in Thailand especially to children and adults living in urban area. The condition impacts the patient’s daily activities such as working, studying, sleeping, and etc. Treatments for allergic rhinitis are avoiding allergic agent(s), medical treatment, and immunotherapy. Previous studies reported on the activity of anti-IgE agent, a monoclonal antibody, on several allergic diseases including severe asthma which failed other medical treatments. The drug acts by prevention binding of IgE to its receptor on mast cell surface. Hence, the allergic reaction is blocked at its early phase. Recent studies reported that anti-IgE agent alone or in combination with immunotherapy can effectively treat or control both forms of perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Keywords: allergic rhinitis, anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, immunotherapy

Vajira Med J 2010 ; 54 : 373 - 377