Anti-Antibodies in Atopy: Anti-Immunoglobulin E Treatment for Recalcitrant Atopic Dermatitis

Patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) frequently have high serum levels of immunoglobulin-E (IgE). A cause-and-effect relationship is speculative, but some studies suggest that allergic reactions involving IgE may cause or worsen AD, at least in some patients. Omalizumab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that binds to the Fc receptor end of IgE, thereby blocking binding of IgE to FceR1 and FceR2 on mast cells and basophils. If IgE is relevant to cause, blocking its action on mast cells might cure or improve AD.

Ten patients (age range, 19–35) with recalcitrant AD, asthma, and serum IgE levels >1000 IU/mL were enrolled in an unblinded, uncontrolled clinical trial. Patients received one subcutaneous injection of omalizumab 300 mg every 2 weeks …