Paediatric severe asthma biologics service: from hospital to home

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Allergy and Immunology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Biologic agents for severe asthma typically require hospital injections.
• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated minimizing hospital visits for pediatric patients.
• Alternative administration methods for biologic therapies were explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of home administration for biologic agents in children with severe asthma.
• To evaluate the use of virtual observation and home spirometry for remote patient monitoring.
• To gather feedback from patients and caregivers on home-based biologic therapy.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team identified eligible children for home administration.
• Virtual observation via video link and home spirometry were employed for monitoring.
• Feedback was collected from caregivers and young people regarding their experience.
• Data on medication administration accuracy and adverse events were recorded.

Main Results:

• 16 out of 23 (70%) families agreed to homecare administration of biologics.
• Medication was administered inaccurately on 2 out of 75 occasions, with no adverse events.
• Over 4 months, 56 video calls for omalizumab and 19 for mepolizumab were conducted.
• Home biologic administration was positively perceived by children and families.

Conclusions:

• Virtually observed home biologic administration is a feasible and safe option for severe pediatric asthma.
• This approach effectively supports remote patient care and monitoring.
• Home-based biologic therapy offers a positive alternative for patients and families, enhancing treatment accessibility.