Factors Related to Omalizumab Drug Survival and Treatment Responses in Chronic Urticaria

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> This study aimed to evaluate factors affecting drug survival and treatment response in patients with chronic urticaria treated with omalizumab in clinical practice. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> This study included 386 patients with chronic urticaria. Demographic characteristics, clinical features, laboratory parameters, and omalizumab treatment data were analyzed retrospectively. The 7-day urticaria activity score (UAS7) and urticaria control test (UCT) were used to assess disease severity and treatment responses. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Well-controlled disease (UAS7 ≤6) was achieved in 59.3% of patients at a median of 2 months. Complete response was significantly higher in patients treated with omalizumab for ≥12 months (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). Family history of asthma (<i>p</i> = 0.01) was less frequent, and disease duration (<i>p</i> = 0.041) was shorter in patients with well-controlled disease. Total treatment duration was longer in patients with relapse (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001) and serum <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> IgA positivity (<i>p</i> = 0.029). <b><i>Discussion/Conclusion:</i></b> Treatment response is better in patients treated with omalizumab for ≥12 months. However, prolonged treatment does not prevent relapse. Our findings suggest that continuous or intermittent therapy is an appropriate alternative treatment option in patients with severe chronic urticaria; however, continuous therapy can be preferred to maintain the patient’s quality of life.