The Use of Targeted Monoclonal Antibodies in the Treatment of ABPA-A Case Series

Medicina (Kaunas). 2021 Dec 29;58(1):53. doi: 10.3390/medicina58010053.

Abstract

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a pulmonary disorder occurring in response to Aspergillus fumigatus that can complicate the course of asthma and cystic fibrosis. Here we present a case of acute ABPA without central bronchiectasis, a case of chronic active ABPA with central bronchiectasis, and a case of severe relapsing ABPA with central bronchiectasis. All three were initially treated with corticosteroids and antifungal agents but had an incomplete response. These patients were then treated with anti-IgE therapy with omalizumab before being switched to the anti-IL5R agent benralizumab. They responded well to both agents. These case reports highlight the potential role of omalizumab and benralizumab in the treatment of ABPA, but further studies are required to evaluate the effectiveness of these medications. Longer follow-up periods and objective measurements of the impact of treatment are necessary.

Keywords: Aspergillus fumigatus; allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA); asthma; immunoglobulin E; monoclonal antibodies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Aspergillosis, Allergic Bronchopulmonary* / drug therapy
  • Aspergillus fumigatus
  • Asthma* / drug therapy
  • Humans

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal