Effect of Dupilumab on Depression in Asthma with Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis in the Japanese Population.

INTRODUCTION

Psychological disorders, such as depression, are markedly prevalent in patients with airway diseases. In this study, we assessed the effect of treatment with dupilumab, an IL-4 receptor α chain antibody, on depressive symptoms in a cohort of patients with asthma with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS).

METHODS

The study participants, diagnosed with asthma and ECRS, were assessed for symptoms and quality of life (QOL) scores for asthma and ECRS and medications. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores were used to evaluate the depressive state. The depressive symptoms were compared with asthma and ECRS symptoms both at the time of initiation and after 4 months of dupilumab treatment.

RESULTS

Ultimately, 31 patients were included in the study. Most patients demonstrated a depressive state that was correlated with the nasal symptom score. In the evaluation 4 months after dupilumab treatment, the PHQ-9 score was significantly reduced, and the decrease was remarkable in patients whose nasal symptom score was reduced by 50% or more. Additionally, the PHQ-9 scores in patients with improved nasal and asthma symptoms were significantly reduced.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Dupilumab may improve QOL in patients with bronchial asthma with ECRS by reducing depressive symptoms through the improvement of clinical symptoms.