Mepolizumab for Prednisone-Dependent Asthma with Sputum Eosinophilia

摘要: Background Eosinophilic inflammation, which may be a consequence of interleukin-5 action, is characteristic feature some forms asthma. However, in three previous clinical trials involving patients with asthma, blockade this cytokine did not result significant improvement outcomes. We studied the prednisone-sparing effect mepolizumab, monoclonal antibody against interleukin-5, rare subgroup who have sputum eosinophilia and airway symptoms despite continued treatment prednisone. Secondary objectives were to examine its on number eosinophils blood, symptoms, airflow limitation. Methods In randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial persistent prednisone treatment, we assigned 9 receive mepolizumab (administered five monthly infusions 750 mg each) 11 placebo. Results There 12 asthma exacerbations 10 who...