NAECB Immunotherapy & Allergen Management Flashcards

Which statement about biologic therapy (e.g., omalizumab) for allergic asthma is correct?

Answer: It targets free IgE to reduce allergic inflammatory cascade

Omalizumab binds free IgE, preventing mast cell and basophil activation and reducing the allergic inflammatory cascade in IgE-mediated asthma.

The total serum IgE level and body weight are used to determine dosing for which biologic?

Answer: Omalizumab

Omalizumab dosing is calculated using a dosing table based on the patient's baseline total serum IgE and body weight.

Pollen calendar knowledge is important for asthma educators because it allows them to:

Answer: Counsel patients on timing of peak allergen exposure and preemptive medication use

Understanding regional pollen seasons allows educators to counsel patients on when to start controller medications preemptively and reduce outdoor exposure.

A patient on SLIT tablets for dust mite allergy should be instructed to take the tablet:

Answer: Placed under the tongue and held for 1–2 minutes before swallowing

SLIT tablets must be placed sublingually and held for 1–2 minutes to allow mucosal absorption, which is the mechanism of allergen tolerance induction.

Which statement about pet allergen (cat/dog) avoidance is supported by evidence in sensitized asthma patients?

Answer: Complete removal of the pet from the home is the most effective intervention

Complete removal of the pet from the home is the most effective strategy; cat allergen (Fel d 1) can persist in the home environment for months even after removal.

Allergen skin prick testing in asthma patients should be performed when:

Answer: Asthma is well-controlled and the patient is not on antihistamines for 5–7 days

Skin prick testing requires well-controlled asthma and discontinuation of antihistamines for 5–7 days to avoid false-negative results and minimize reaction risk.