Effects of Benralizumab on Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Analysis in Severe Eosinophilic Asthma

Abstract

Introduction: Benralizumab, an anti-interleukin-5 receptor chain monoclonal antibody, is used to treat severe asthma and control asthma symptoms or exacerbations. The aim of this study was to examine the changes in airway morphology using computed tomography (CT) images in accordance with clinical efficacy following the administration of benralizumab. Methods: The clinical efficacy of benralizumab was evaluated in 11 patients with severe asthma by analyzing the changes in parameters, such as the asthma control test, asthma quality of life questionnaire, pulmonary function, and exacerbation count. We also investigated the airway wall thickness of the right bronchus (B1) and the total airway count (TAC) using CT images. Results: Most patients treated with benralizumab showed improvements in asthma symptoms and exacerbations. CT imaging analyses showed a decrease in the right B¹ airway wall thickness and an increase in the TAC. Correlations between blood eosinophil count and changes in CT imaging were observed. Discussion/Conclusion: The data suggested that benralizumab has the potential to improve airway wall thickening and ventilation by alleviating the obstruction and clearing an obstructed airway.