Regional challenges to optimize the management of patients with severe asthma type 2 inflammation: a Delphi consensus in seven countries.

Abstract

Objective:Severe asthma burdens patients and presents clinical management challenges for healthcare professionals. Biologics are crucial interventions for severe type two (T2) patients with high eosinophil counts. We conducted a Delphi consensus in seven developing or typically underrepresented countries to understand expert agreement on managing severe asthma with type two (T2) inflammation.

Methods:The study comprised two online survey rounds and a participant meeting, involving 21 and 20 respiratory experts in the first and second survey, respectively. We developed a 70-statement questionnaire after literature review. Responses were recorded on a Likert scale (0-9) with 75% consensus threshold.

Results:Consensus was reached on 37/60 closed-ended questions, including subtypes, in survey-1 and 20/47 closed-ended questions in survey-2. 95% of participants agreed on biomarker use for biologic treatment selection. 100% agreed timely biologic treatment leads to improvement in patients with severe asthma and an eosinophilic phenotype. 90% agreed to avoid maintenance oral corticosteroids (OCS) and start biologic therapy directly. Experts defined clinical remission on treatment as no exacerbations, no OCS use, Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ)-5 score < 1.5, and lung function optimization (forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV₁] ≥ 80% of predicted or pre-bronchodilator FEV₁ increase ≥ 100 mL from baseline). In survey-1, 81% agreed these outcomes are achievable in practice. All referral statements achieved consensus.

Conclusions:This Delphi study focused on understanding patients with severe asthma and T2 inflammation in developing/underrepresented countries. Appropriately utilizing biomarkers, timely treatment interventions for best outcomes, expert consensus on clinical remission, and referral are crucial for improving patient management.