What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to assess the response of asthmatics with IgE levels exceeding 700 IU/ml when treated with omalizumab.

March 14, 2026

Omalizumab in asthmatics with IgE levels > 700 IU/ml

DMDiego J. MaselliThe University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio JDJoseph D. DiazThe University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio JPJ I PetersThe University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

Key Points

The aim is to assess the response of asthmatics with IgE levels exceeding 700 IU/ml when treated with omalizumab.
Conducted a retrospective, case-controlled study in an allergy referral clinic.
Recorded demographics and clinical variables of asthmatics treated with omalizumab for at least 6 months.
Analyzed systemic corticosteroid use, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and asthma control pre and post-treatment.
Patients with IgE > 700 IU/ml had a mean IgE level of 2371 IU/ml, significantly higher than those with IgE 30-700 IU/ml.
Both groups showed improved asthma control based on the ACT scores before and after treatment.
Significant reduction in systemic corticosteroid use was observed post-treatment in both groups.

Abstract

Introduction: Omalizumab, a monoclonal antibody against IgE, has been effectively used to control symptoms and reduce steroid requirements in asthmatics with serum IgE levels between 30-700 IU/ml and positive testing for perennial allergens. Its use when IgE levels are > 700 IU/ml is unclear. Aim: To evaluate the response of asthmatics treated with omalizumab with IgE levels > 700 IU/ml. Methods: A retrospective, case-controlled study was performed in an allergy referral clinic. Consecutive asthmatics treated with omalizumab ≥ 6 months with elevated IgE levels were identified, and demographic variables recorded. Systemic corticosteroid requirements, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, FEV1, Asthma Control Test (ACT) scores, medications and allergen responses were recorded for a period of 6 months pre and post treatment. Results: Twenty-six patients with an IgE >700 IU/ml (Group 1) and 26 with an IgE of 30 to 700 IU/ml (Group 2) were identified. The mean IgE level was 2371 IU/ml (786-10979) vs. 221 IU/ml (30-578) respectively (p 700 IU/ml and produced clinical improvement similar to patients with IgE levels between 30-700 IU/ml.

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