Pub Date : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101099
Toni Osborne MSc , Gareth Walters PhD , Richard Baretto PhD , Mamidipudi Thirumala Krishna PhD
Background
Published evidence suggests an increased burden of food allergy (FA) amongst ethnic minority groups resident the United States of America and Australia, with limited data from the United Kingdom. The West Midlands Regional Allergy Service serves British Caucasian White and Ethnic Minority Groups with a large proportion being British South Asian, making it important to explore ethnicity—based differences in clinical outcomes for FA.
Aims
To compare clinical outcomes of FA and other atopic diseases between Caucasian White and South Asian patients attending the regional allergy service in West Midlands.
Methods
This prospective cross-sectional, observational study (N = 29 White and N = 21 South Asian) used a structured questionnaire with dichotomous, multiple-choice, and scaled questions to gather data on age, ethnicity, FA (including allergens, allergic reactions, adrenaline auto-injector use, and emergency department visits), and other atopic conditions.
Main results
1.) South Asians had significantly (p = 0.006) more frequent FA reactions. 2.) Poorly controlled eczema and asthma were significantly (eczema p = 0.015, asthma p = 0.022) more common amongst South Asians. 3.) The burden of asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis was similar between groups. 4.) Significantly more White patients (p = 0.027) with asthma were on higher treatment steps.
Conclusion
British South Asian patients with FA attending the West Midlands regional allergy service had more frequent allergic reactions and poorly controlled asthma and eczema compared to British Caucasian White patients. This highlights the need for improved education and compliance. Larger multi-centre studies are needed to gain further insight into ethnicity-based disparities in FA.
{"title":"Disparities in food allergy amongst British South Asian adult patients in central England","authors":"Toni Osborne MSc , Gareth Walters PhD , Richard Baretto PhD , Mamidipudi Thirumala Krishna PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101099","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101099","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Published evidence suggests an increased burden of food allergy (FA) amongst ethnic minority groups resident the United States of America and Australia, with limited data from the United Kingdom. The West Midlands Regional Allergy Service serves British Caucasian White and Ethnic Minority Groups with a large proportion being British South Asian, making it important to explore ethnicity—based differences in clinical outcomes for FA.</div></div><div><h3>Aims</h3><div>To compare clinical outcomes of FA and other atopic diseases between Caucasian White and South Asian patients attending the regional allergy service in West Midlands.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This prospective cross-sectional, observational study (N = 29 White and N = 21 South Asian) used a structured questionnaire with dichotomous, multiple-choice, and scaled questions to gather data on age, ethnicity, FA (including allergens, allergic reactions, adrenaline auto-injector use, and emergency department visits), and other atopic conditions.</div></div><div><h3>Main results</h3><div>1.) South Asians had significantly (p = 0.006) more frequent FA reactions. 2.) Poorly controlled eczema and asthma were significantly (eczema p = 0.015, asthma p = 0.022) more common amongst South Asians. 3.) The burden of asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis was similar between groups. 4.) Significantly more White patients (p = 0.027) with asthma were on higher treatment steps.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>British South Asian patients with FA attending the West Midlands regional allergy service had more frequent allergic reactions and poorly controlled asthma and eczema compared to British Caucasian White patients. This highlights the need for improved education and compliance. Larger multi-centre studies are needed to gain further insight into ethnicity-based disparities in FA.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101099"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144997187","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101112
Mário Morais-Almeida MD , Raquel Baptista-Pestana MD , Sandra N. González-Dĺaz MD, PhD , Bryan L. Martin DO , Gary W.K. Wong MD
{"title":"From cockpit to community: Time to stop the use of first-generation H1-antihistamines","authors":"Mário Morais-Almeida MD , Raquel Baptista-Pestana MD , Sandra N. González-Dĺaz MD, PhD , Bryan L. Martin DO , Gary W.K. Wong MD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101112","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101112","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101112"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144997188","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101110
Xingxing Yuan PhD , Liuxin Yang MD , Chaofan Li MD , Ousman Bajinka MSc, PhD , Zhuying Li PhD
The increasing global warming trend has led to a drier landscape, which has in turn resulted in an increased incidence of wildfires. The smoke emanating from these fires has consequences that extend beyond the loss of property. This comes with the wildfire season whose smoke emanations have implications beyond loss of property. Among the health concerns regarding wildfires and smoke are respiratory diseases, such as asthma. Asthma, as a heterogeneous disease, is directly linked to other types of smoke rather than cigarettes, traffic exhaust, and industrial chemicals. Wildfires have been shown to be associated with particulate matter that act as pollutants to human life. The unprecedented increase in emergency visits during wildfire seasons is of clinical significance for its association with asthma and other pulmonary disorders. Despite the efforts of wealthy communities or nations, which have faced episodes of wildfires in recent years, the most effective protocol is yet to be developed. Given the vulnerability of individuals, including asthmatics, to the smoke from wildfires, interventions should extend beyond emergency measures. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the relationship between wildfires and asthma symptoms, exploring the underlying mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo. It also delves into the potential implications for science policies, communication strategies, research directions, and management strategies for asthma cases, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. Furthermore, this review serves as a guideline for various sectors, offering a clear conceptual rationale for preventing and managing wildfire smoke-related asthma and other pulmonary diseases. The interventions are multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary concerns, and given the transboundary nature of smoke, it is imperative for all relevant parties to collaborate to minimize preventable deaths.
{"title":"Wildfire and asthma - The prospective interventions","authors":"Xingxing Yuan PhD , Liuxin Yang MD , Chaofan Li MD , Ousman Bajinka MSc, PhD , Zhuying Li PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101110","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101110","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The increasing global warming trend has led to a drier landscape, which has in turn resulted in an increased incidence of wildfires. The smoke emanating from these fires has consequences that extend beyond the loss of property. This comes with the wildfire season whose smoke emanations have implications beyond loss of property. Among the health concerns regarding wildfires and smoke are respiratory diseases, such as asthma. Asthma, as a heterogeneous disease, is directly linked to other types of smoke rather than cigarettes, traffic exhaust, and industrial chemicals. Wildfires have been shown to be associated with particulate matter that act as pollutants to human life. The unprecedented increase in emergency visits during wildfire seasons is of clinical significance for its association with asthma and other pulmonary disorders. Despite the efforts of wealthy communities or nations, which have faced episodes of wildfires in recent years, the most effective protocol is yet to be developed. Given the vulnerability of individuals, including asthmatics, to the smoke from wildfires, interventions should extend beyond emergency measures. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the relationship between wildfires and asthma symptoms, exploring the underlying mechanisms both <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em>. It also delves into the potential implications for science policies, communication strategies, research directions, and management strategies for asthma cases, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. Furthermore, this review serves as a guideline for various sectors, offering a clear conceptual rationale for preventing and managing wildfire smoke-related asthma and other pulmonary diseases. The interventions are multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary concerns, and given the transboundary nature of smoke, it is imperative for all relevant parties to collaborate to minimize preventable deaths.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101110"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144988005","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study aimed to compare systematically strain-specific immune differences between BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice in a local tolerance model and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Methods
BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice received daily intranasal ovalbumin (OVA; 25 mg/ml, 10μl/nostril) or PBS for 15 weeks. Systemic responses (serum OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, IgG2a; splenocyte cytokine secretion: IL-4, IL-10, IFN-γ) and local nasal responses (symptoms, histopathology: polymorphonuclear/goblet cell infiltration; immunohistochemistry: TGF-β, IL-10, eotaxin; RNA-seq transcriptomics of nasal mucosa) were assessed at the 8th and 15th weeks.
Results
BALB/c mice initially exhibited worsening nasal symptoms, which was followed by significant alleviation. In contrast, C57BL/6 mice showed a significant worsening of symptoms. Serum levels of IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a increased significantly over time in BALB/c mice. In C57BL/6 mice, serum IgE and IgG1 levels also increased significantly, while IgG2a levels showed no significant changes. In splenocyte supernatants, BALB/c mice showed IL-4 levels that initially increased significantly but later decreased significantly, whereas IL-10 levels were significantly elevated and sustained. Conversely, C57BL/6 mice exhibited no significant changes in these splenocyte cytokines. Within nasal mucosa, BALB/c mice displayed polymorphonuclear cell infiltration and significantly elevated eotaxin levels, which subsequently stabilized, alongside significant upregulation of TGF-β and IL-10 expression. At 15th week, C57BL/6 mice demonstrated significantly higher nasal PMN infiltration and eotaxin levels compared to BALB/c mice, but showed no significant increase in TGF-β or IL-10 compared to controls. RNA-seq analysis of nasal mucosa revealed that BALB/c mice at 15th week exhibited significant upregulation of genes involved in biological processes, tolerance-related signaling pathways, and negative regulatory pathways. Conversely, C57BL/6 mice showed significant upregulation of genes associated with cell synthesis- and secretion-related pathways.
Conclusion
Based on the criteria defining “local tolerance” in this model—significant symptom attenuation despite allergen escalation coupled with downregulation of nasal inflammatory markers (eotaxin, polymorphonuclear cell infiltration)—local tolerance was successfully induced in BALB/c mice by long-term OVA stimulation, but not in C57BL/6 mice. The normal function of T regulatory cells is key to establishing local tolerance.
{"title":"A preliminary investigation of the differences in immune responses in different strains of mice with localized allergic rhinitis tolerance models","authors":"Qidi Zhang MD , Wanting Zhu MD , Zhixin Zou MD , Wenting Yu PhD , Pei Gao PhD , Ziyi Long MD , Ying Wang PhD , Jianjun Chen PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101115","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101115","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aimed to compare systematically strain-specific immune differences between BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice in a local tolerance model and explore the underlying mechanisms.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice received daily intranasal ovalbumin (OVA; 25 mg/ml, 10μl/nostril) or PBS for 15 weeks. Systemic responses (serum OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, IgG2a; splenocyte cytokine secretion: IL-4, IL-10, IFN-γ) and local nasal responses (symptoms, histopathology: polymorphonuclear/goblet cell infiltration; immunohistochemistry: TGF-β, IL-10, eotaxin; RNA-seq transcriptomics of nasal mucosa) were assessed at the 8th and 15th weeks.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>BALB/c mice initially exhibited worsening nasal symptoms, which was followed by significant alleviation. In contrast, C57BL/6 mice showed a significant worsening of symptoms. Serum levels of IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a increased significantly over time in BALB/c mice. In C57BL/6 mice, serum IgE and IgG1 levels also increased significantly, while IgG2a levels showed no significant changes. In splenocyte supernatants, BALB/c mice showed IL-4 levels that initially increased significantly but later decreased significantly, whereas IL-10 levels were significantly elevated and sustained. Conversely, C57BL/6 mice exhibited no significant changes in these splenocyte cytokines. Within nasal mucosa, BALB/c mice displayed polymorphonuclear cell infiltration and significantly elevated eotaxin levels, which subsequently stabilized, alongside significant upregulation of TGF-β and IL-10 expression. At 15th week, C57BL/6 mice demonstrated significantly higher nasal PMN infiltration and eotaxin levels compared to BALB/c mice, but showed no significant increase in TGF-β or IL-10 compared to controls. RNA-seq analysis of nasal mucosa revealed that BALB/c mice at 15th week exhibited significant upregulation of genes involved in biological processes, tolerance-related signaling pathways, and negative regulatory pathways. Conversely, C57BL/6 mice showed significant upregulation of genes associated with cell synthesis- and secretion-related pathways.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Based on the criteria defining “local tolerance” in this model—significant symptom attenuation despite allergen escalation coupled with downregulation of nasal inflammatory markers (eotaxin, polymorphonuclear cell infiltration)—local tolerance was successfully induced in BALB/c mice by long-term OVA stimulation, but not in C57BL/6 mice. The normal function of T regulatory cells is key to establishing local tolerance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101115"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145026644","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-29DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101087
Steering Committee Authors, M. Pilar Berges-Gimeno MD, PhD , Emilio Alvarez-Cuesta MD, PhD, MQM , Marina Atanaskovic-Markovic MD, PhD , Marina Attanassi MD, PhD , Carlo Caffareli MD, PhD , Jean-Christoph Caubet MD , George du Toit MBBCh, MRCPCH , Antonieta Guzman-Melendez MD, PhD , Semanur Kuyucu MD, PhD , Ricardo Madrigal-Burgaleta PhD, FRCP , Lina Mayorga MD, PhD , Elizabeth Powell MBChB, PhD , Michelle Ramien MD, MSc , Eva Rebelo Gomes MD, PhD , Francesca Mori MD, PhD , Andrew A. White MD , Ignacio J. Ansotegui MD, PhD , Review Panel Authors, Marcelo Vivolo Aun MD, PhD , Masao Yamaguchi MD, PhD
Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) in children and adolescents are less common than in adults but can have serious consequences if mismanaged. Mislabeling children as drug-allergic due to incomplete diagnostic evaluations leads to unnecessary medication restrictions, increased healthcare costs, and suboptimal treatment choices. This Statement from the World Allergy Organization (WAO) provides evidence-based recommendations for evaluating and managing pediatric DHRs, emphasizing accurate diagnosis through in vivo and in vitro testing, risk stratification, and personalized approaches. Antibiotics, particularly β-lactams, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequently implicated drugs, with non-immediate reactions, such as maculopapular exanthema, being the most common presentation. The document also addresses emerging concerns, including monoclonal antibody-induced anaphylaxis and drug-induced enterocolitis syndrome. It underscores the need for specialized care in allergy centers with expertise in pediatric populations and advocates for multidisciplinary programs to manage complex cases, such as chemotherapy hypersensitivity and perioperative drug allergy. By addressing diagnostic challenges and clinical uncertainties, this document aims to improve the management of DHRs in children, reduce mislabeling, and enhance patient outcomes worldwide.
{"title":"Drug hypersensitivity reactions in children in clinical practice: A WAO Statement","authors":"Steering Committee Authors, M. Pilar Berges-Gimeno MD, PhD , Emilio Alvarez-Cuesta MD, PhD, MQM , Marina Atanaskovic-Markovic MD, PhD , Marina Attanassi MD, PhD , Carlo Caffareli MD, PhD , Jean-Christoph Caubet MD , George du Toit MBBCh, MRCPCH , Antonieta Guzman-Melendez MD, PhD , Semanur Kuyucu MD, PhD , Ricardo Madrigal-Burgaleta PhD, FRCP , Lina Mayorga MD, PhD , Elizabeth Powell MBChB, PhD , Michelle Ramien MD, MSc , Eva Rebelo Gomes MD, PhD , Francesca Mori MD, PhD , Andrew A. White MD , Ignacio J. Ansotegui MD, PhD , Review Panel Authors, Marcelo Vivolo Aun MD, PhD , Masao Yamaguchi MD, PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101087","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101087","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) in children and adolescents are less common than in adults but can have serious consequences if mismanaged. Mislabeling children as drug-allergic due to incomplete diagnostic evaluations leads to unnecessary medication restrictions, increased healthcare costs, and suboptimal treatment choices. This Statement from the World Allergy Organization (WAO) provides evidence-based recommendations for evaluating and managing pediatric DHRs, emphasizing accurate diagnosis through <em>in vivo</em> and <em>in vitro</em> testing, risk stratification, and personalized approaches. Antibiotics, particularly β-lactams, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequently implicated drugs, with non-immediate reactions, such as maculopapular exanthema, being the most common presentation. The document also addresses emerging concerns, including monoclonal antibody-induced anaphylaxis and drug-induced enterocolitis syndrome. It underscores the need for specialized care in allergy centers with expertise in pediatric populations and advocates for multidisciplinary programs to manage complex cases, such as chemotherapy hypersensitivity and perioperative drug allergy. By addressing diagnostic challenges and clinical uncertainties, this document aims to improve the management of DHRs in children, reduce mislabeling, and enhance patient outcomes worldwide.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101087"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144913768","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-25DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101106
Tari Haahtela MD, PhD
{"title":"Allergic diseases are signalling a public health crisis — It is time for a global allergy health plan","authors":"Tari Haahtela MD, PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101106","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101106","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101106"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144895085","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-22DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101107
Johanna Ramirez-Villamizar MD , Ciro D. Ibarra-Enríquez MD , Juan Sebastián Galindo-Sánchez MD , Carlos Serrano-Reyes MD , Liliana Fernández-Trujillo MD
Introduction
Severe asthma is characterized by poor disease control despite the use of high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. Biologic therapies have revolutionized its management, allowing some patients to achieve remission. However, uncertainty remains regarding the optimal duration of treatment and the safest strategies for discontinuation. This study reviews the available evidence on the withdrawal of biologic therapy in patients with severe asthma in remission, evaluating their clinical outcomes.
Methods
A literature review was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Epistemonikos, and LILACS up to May 2024, using terms related to severe asthma and discontinuation of biologic therapies. Studies evaluating asthma control after dose reduction or withdrawal of biologic treatment were included, considering outcomes such as exacerbations, lung function, and inflammatory biomarkers.
Results
Of the 2494 studies identified, 23 articles were included after full-text review. Discontinuation of tezepelumab led to a gradual loss of clinical control in most patients, although baseline levels of inflammation were not reached. Regarding mepolizumab, 59% of patients experienced at least 1 significant exacerbation within the first year after withdrawal, suggesting the need for prolonged use. For omalizumab, results were heterogeneous: 67% of patients who continued treatment remained exacerbation-free, compared to 47.7 of those who discontinued it. Studies that implemented gradual tapering strategies showed higher success rates in discontinuation without loss of clinical control.
Conclusion
Evidence suggests that discontinuation of biologic therapy should be individualized, and a minimum treatment duration of 5 years may be appropriate before considering withdrawal. Optimal candidates include those with sustained clinical control, stable lung function, suppressed inflammatory biomarkers, and no need for oral corticosteroids. Gradual decreasing strategies may optimize treatment withdrawal while minimizing the risk of relapse.
{"title":"Discontinuation of biologic therapy in severe asthma: Evidence and strategies for safe withdrawal: A scoping review","authors":"Johanna Ramirez-Villamizar MD , Ciro D. Ibarra-Enríquez MD , Juan Sebastián Galindo-Sánchez MD , Carlos Serrano-Reyes MD , Liliana Fernández-Trujillo MD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101107","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101107","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Severe asthma is characterized by poor disease control despite the use of high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. Biologic therapies have revolutionized its management, allowing some patients to achieve remission. However, uncertainty remains regarding the optimal duration of treatment and the safest strategies for discontinuation. This study reviews the available evidence on the withdrawal of biologic therapy in patients with severe asthma in remission, evaluating their clinical outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A literature review was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Epistemonikos, and LILACS up to May 2024, using terms related to severe asthma and discontinuation of biologic therapies. Studies evaluating asthma control after dose reduction or withdrawal of biologic treatment were included, considering outcomes such as exacerbations, lung function, and inflammatory biomarkers.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of the 2494 studies identified, 23 articles were included after full-text review. Discontinuation of tezepelumab led to a gradual loss of clinical control in most patients, although baseline levels of inflammation were not reached. Regarding mepolizumab, 59% of patients experienced at least 1 significant exacerbation within the first year after withdrawal, suggesting the need for prolonged use. For omalizumab, results were heterogeneous: 67% of patients who continued treatment remained exacerbation-free, compared to 47.7 of those who discontinued it. Studies that implemented gradual tapering strategies showed higher success rates in discontinuation without loss of clinical control.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Evidence suggests that discontinuation of biologic therapy should be individualized, and a minimum treatment duration of 5 years may be appropriate before considering withdrawal. Optimal candidates include those with sustained clinical control, stable lung function, suppressed inflammatory biomarkers, and no need for oral corticosteroids. Gradual decreasing strategies may optimize treatment withdrawal while minimizing the risk of relapse.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101107"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144887026","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The burden and prevalence of food allergy (FA), a condition known to negatively impact the quality of life (QoL) of patients and their families, vary across countries due to cultural habits and clinical practices and have been assessed differently among previous studies. To date, no validated scale exists to measure FA severity risk.
Objective
The study objectives were to develop a standardized methodology to estimate FA point prevalence in children and adults in 9 countries, to assess FA impact on QoL, and to construct a framework to define FA severity risk based on QoL and FA clinical severity.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional, international study that collected self-reported data through an online quantitative survey. Participants were recruited from general population panels: parents/caregivers of children aged 6 months-17 years, and adults aged 18–65 years. The survey instrument was developed by a panel of clinical FA experts and epidemiologists.
Results
Weighted prevalence rates were calculated for the 4 generated case definitions of FA (self-reported, physician-diagnosed, symptom-convincing, and confirmed FA). Several validated scales, including the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire (FAQLQ) and the Food Allergy Independent Measure (FAIM), were used to assess FA impact on QoL in patients with symptom-convincing FA. Four FA severity risk profiles were generated: non-severe, at-risk, highly impacted QoL, and severe patients.
Conclusion
The ASSESS FA study developed a methodology to estimate the prevalence of FA and its impact on QoL consistently across countries, age groups, and food allergens. The severity risk framework was based on both the clinical severity and impact on QoL aspects of FA.
{"title":"Methodology of the international cross-sectional prevalence and severity study of pediatric and adult IgE-mediated food allergies (ASSESS FA)","authors":"Ruchi Gupta MD, MPH , Tarek Mnif PharmD , Suzanne Reed PhD , Mira Hleyhel PhD , Stefani Dritsa PhD , Perrine LeCalvé MSc , Alissar Moussallem PharmD, MPH , Paolo Tassinari MD , Jessica Marvel MPH , Alessandro Fiocchi MD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101105","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101105","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The burden and prevalence of food allergy (FA), a condition known to negatively impact the quality of life (QoL) of patients and their families, vary across countries due to cultural habits and clinical practices and have been assessed differently among previous studies. To date, no validated scale exists to measure FA severity risk.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The study objectives were to develop a standardized methodology to estimate FA point prevalence in children and adults in 9 countries, to assess FA impact on QoL, and to construct a framework to define FA severity risk based on QoL and FA clinical severity.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This was a cross-sectional, international study that collected self-reported data through an online quantitative survey. Participants were recruited from general population panels: parents/caregivers of children aged 6 months-17 years, and adults aged 18–65 years. The survey instrument was developed by a panel of clinical FA experts and epidemiologists.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Weighted prevalence rates were calculated for the 4 generated case definitions of FA (self-reported, physician-diagnosed, symptom-convincing, and confirmed FA). Several validated scales, including the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire (FAQLQ) and the Food Allergy Independent Measure (FAIM), were used to assess FA impact on QoL in patients with symptom-convincing FA. Four FA severity risk profiles were generated: non-severe, at-risk, highly impacted QoL, and severe patients.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The ASSESS FA study developed a methodology to estimate the prevalence of FA and its impact on QoL consistently across countries, age groups, and food allergens. The severity risk framework was based on both the clinical severity and impact on QoL aspects of FA.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101105"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144890620","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-21DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101108
Zhen Liu MD , Yumei Li PhD , Xiangkun Zhao MM , Qi Sun MD , Yu Zhang MD , Yaqi Wang MM , Han Fang MD , Yujuan Yang MD , Yakui Mou MD , Xicheng Song MD
Background
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been increasingly recognized as critical regulators in the pathogenesis of immunoinflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, their mechanistic contributions to Th2-driven allergic rhinitis (AR) remain unclear. This study investigated the immunomodulatory function of lncRNA PELATON in AR pathogenesis by exploring its regulatory effects on Th2 cell differentiation.
Methods
A total of 32 participants were enrolled, comprising 16 patients diagnosed with AR and 16 control subjects. The allergy levels of the participants were assessed using the skin prick test (SPT), and the levels of PELATON expression in PBMCs were detected by qPCR. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation between the 2 variables. Changes in GATA3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 expression were examined, as well as changes in Th2 cell differentiation resulting from the overexpression of PELATON and miR-10b-5p. Modulation of miR-10b-5p and GATA3 expression by PELATON was studied via transcriptome sequencing, dual-luciferase reporter assays, and in vitro experiments.
Results
LncRNA PELATON expression was elevated in patients with AR and showed a significant correlation with allergy levels. PELATON was enriched in CD4+T cells. Overexpression of PELATON in PBMCs led to an increase in the proportion of Th2 cells and the levels of GATA3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 expression, while the overexpression of miR-10b-5p reduced the expression levels of GATA3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. PELATON bound directly to miR-10b-5p and inhibited the negative regulatory effect of miR-10b-5p on GATA3, thereby forming a ceRNA network that promoted Th2 cell differentiation.
Conclusion
LncRNA PELATON competitively binds to miR-10b-5p and promotes GATA3 expression, resulting in Th2 cell differentiation and activation in AR. Formation of the lncRNA PELATON/miR-10b-5p/GATA3 ceRNA network is a regulatory mechanism that offers new possibilities for finding therapeutic targets for AR.
{"title":"LncRNA PELATON regulates Th2 cell differentiation by miR-10b-5p/GATA3 axis in allergic rhinitis","authors":"Zhen Liu MD , Yumei Li PhD , Xiangkun Zhao MM , Qi Sun MD , Yu Zhang MD , Yaqi Wang MM , Han Fang MD , Yujuan Yang MD , Yakui Mou MD , Xicheng Song MD","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101108","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101108","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been increasingly recognized as critical regulators in the pathogenesis of immunoinflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, their mechanistic contributions to Th2-driven allergic rhinitis (AR) remain unclear. This study investigated the immunomodulatory function of lncRNA PELATON in AR pathogenesis by exploring its regulatory effects on Th2 cell differentiation.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 32 participants were enrolled, comprising 16 patients diagnosed with AR and 16 control subjects. The allergy levels of the participants were assessed using the skin prick test (SPT), and the levels of PELATON expression in PBMCs were detected by qPCR. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to calculate the correlation between the 2 variables. Changes in GATA3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 expression were examined, as well as changes in Th2 cell differentiation resulting from the overexpression of PELATON and miR-10b-5p. Modulation of miR-10b-5p and GATA3 expression by PELATON was studied via transcriptome sequencing, dual-luciferase reporter assays, and <em>in vitro</em> experiments.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>LncRNA PELATON expression was elevated in patients with AR and showed a significant correlation with allergy levels. PELATON was enriched in CD4<sup>+</sup>T cells. Overexpression of PELATON in PBMCs led to an increase in the proportion of Th2 cells and the levels of GATA3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 expression, while the overexpression of miR-10b-5p reduced the expression levels of GATA3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. PELATON bound directly to miR-10b-5p and inhibited the negative regulatory effect of miR-10b-5p on GATA3, thereby forming a ceRNA network that promoted Th2 cell differentiation.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>LncRNA PELATON competitively binds to miR-10b-5p and promotes GATA3 expression, resulting in Th2 cell differentiation and activation in AR. Formation of the lncRNA PELATON/miR-10b-5p/GATA3 ceRNA network is a regulatory mechanism that offers new possibilities for finding therapeutic targets for AR.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 9","pages":"Article 101108"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144887025","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background: Atopic diseases are common in pediatric liver transplant (LT) recipients, yet their prevalence, remission, and risk factors remain unclear.
Objective: To investigate the prevalence, onset, remission, and risk factors for food allergy (FA), allergic rhinitis (AR), and asthma in pediatric LT recipients.
Results: Among 118 pediatric LT recipients, 71 (60.2%) developed atopic diseases post-transplant. De novo FA was the most common (40.7%), with a median onset of 9.5 months after LT. Most cases were IgE-mediated, with cow's milk and egg as the most common allergens. Over 3 years, 56.3% outgrew at least one allergic food. AR was diagnosed in 24.4%, with house dust mites as the primary sensitizing allergens. Asthma was less frequent (3.4%). Younger age at LT (<2 years) significantly increased FA risk (OR: 5.5, 95% CI: 2.0-15.2), as did Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation (OR: 6.5, 95% CI: 1.2-33.8). AR risk was higher in those with a first-degree family history of atopy (OR: 5.6, 95% CI: 2.1-14.7) or an atopic organ donor (OR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.3-16.2).
Conclusion: De novo FA and AR are common in pediatric LT recipients, with significant associations with age at transplant, EBV reactivation, and genetic predisposition. Early monitoring and intervention are crucial to managing atopic diseases in this population.
{"title":"Prevalence and risk factors of <i>de novo</i> atopic diseases in pediatric liver transplant recipients: A retrospective cohort study.","authors":"Krittapaun Sombatwatthana, Watcharoot Kanchongkittiphon, Potjanee Kiewngam, Wanlapa Jotikasthira, Songpon Getsuwan, Napapat Butsriphum, Wiparat Manuyakorn, Suporn Treepongkaruna","doi":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101102","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.waojou.2025.101102","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Atopic diseases are common in pediatric liver transplant (LT) recipients, yet their prevalence, remission, and risk factors remain unclear.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To investigate the prevalence, onset, remission, and risk factors for food allergy (FA), allergic rhinitis (AR), and asthma in pediatric LT recipients.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among 118 pediatric LT recipients, 71 (60.2%) developed atopic diseases post-transplant. <i>De novo</i> FA was the most common (40.7%), with a median onset of 9.5 months after LT. Most cases were IgE-mediated, with cow's milk and egg as the most common allergens. Over 3 years, 56.3% outgrew at least one allergic food. AR was diagnosed in 24.4%, with house dust mites as the primary sensitizing allergens. Asthma was less frequent (3.4%). Younger age at LT (<2 years) significantly increased FA risk (OR: 5.5, 95% CI: 2.0-15.2), as did Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation (OR: 6.5, 95% CI: 1.2-33.8). AR risk was higher in those with a first-degree family history of atopy (OR: 5.6, 95% CI: 2.1-14.7) or an atopic organ donor (OR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.3-16.2).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong><i>De novo</i> FA and AR are common in pediatric LT recipients, with significant associations with age at transplant, EBV reactivation, and genetic predisposition. Early monitoring and intervention are crucial to managing atopic diseases in this population.</p>","PeriodicalId":54295,"journal":{"name":"World Allergy Organization Journal","volume":"18 8","pages":"101102"},"PeriodicalIF":4.3,"publicationDate":"2025-08-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12357041/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144876813","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}