Kansas City, KS – For some patients living with COPD, allergies may be doing more than causing sneezing and itchy eyes. They could be triggering inflammation that makes breathing even harder. Researchers at The University of Kansas Health System are studying whether an injectable treatment already used for asthma could help a specific group of COPD patients. On Open Mics with Dr. Stites, a pulmonologist explains the research and shares how clinical trials have helped one patient with severe lung disease regain quality of life.
November is COPD Awareness Month, bringing attention to a disease that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Dr. Mario Castro, Division Chief of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Castro explains why COPD isn't a one-size-fits-all disease and how identifying the underlying causes of inflammation could lead to more targeted treatments.
He discusses a clinical trial studying an injectable biologic therapy that targets IgE, a molecule involved in allergic reactions, to determine whether it can improve COPD symptoms in patients with allergies.
Dr. Castro says researchers are recruiting COPD patients who continue experiencing symptoms and have a history of allergies. Screening includes blood tests and testing dust collected from patients' homes for five indoor allergens.
Dr. Castro shares the remarkable improvement of patient Amy Worley, whose lung function had been in the 20% to 30% range. After participating in multiple clinical trials, she experienced significant improvements in her health and quality of life.
He explains what participating in the allergy-related COPD trial involves, including lung function testing, blood work, CT imaging and follow-up appointments.
He says the study is expected to continue recruiting patients over the next couple of years, with study-related costs covered and assistance available for transportation.
Dr. Castro encourages patients to consider clinical trials, emphasizing that participation is voluntary and can help advance treatment for future patients.
