Augmentation Therapy for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: Patient Experiences With Self-Infusion, Home Providers, and Clinics.

Abstract

Background: Currently approved therapies for individuals with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) are intravenously infused products. The burdens and demographics of infusion practices in the United States are not well-characterized.

Research question: What is the prevalence of different infusion practices in the United States?

Study design and methods: AlphaNet disease management participants completed a survey that captured current and past infusion practices. Data regarding the reasons for choosing their current infusion practice, problems with past infusion practices, resources required, and support services utilized were collected from February 8, 2022 through July 1, 2022.

Results: Among 5266 individuals, infusions happened at home by health care providers (60.2%), at infusion clinics (30.6%), and by self-infusion (8.1%). Self-infusion prevalence increased with time on therapy and was more prevalent in younger individuals (61.2 ± 10.5 years) compared to users of other infusion practices (64.1 ± 11.0 years), (p<0.001). The perceived benefits of self-infusion included: (1) freedom and flexibility (77.9%), (2) ability to travel (44.5%), (3) avoidance of infusion clinics (41.8%), (4) time-savings (35.9%), (5) less absence from work (26.6%), (6) less exposure to infections (22.1%), and (7) less cost (16.4%). Self-infusion was done through permanent intravenous catheters in 41.2% and peripheral intravenous catheters in 58.3%. Self-infusers were more satisfied (93.1% "very satisfied") than other groups. Among individuals currently infusing with home nurses or in clinics, 21.4% would consider self-infusing in the future.

Interpretation: Self-infusion of alpha-1 antitrypsin is feasible and associated with high satisfaction scores. Recommendations for catheter care, infusion support, and cost management are informed by survey results.