Immunology

Recent research has explored how biologics used to treat atopic dermatitis might increase the risk of developing conjunctivitis. If you have atopic dermatitis and are considering biologic medications, this overview may help you understand potential risks and what to expect. Certain treatments for atopic dermatitis may raise the chance of getting conjunctivitis. The primary treatments...

A recent study investigated the safety of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines among patients diagnosed with central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating diseases. The research aimed to provide clarity as to whether the vaccine poses any risks or side effects for this specific patient group. The response of patients with central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating diseases to SARS-CoV-2...

A new study found that Blacks and Hispanics are much more likely to be affected by alopecia areata than Whites. The study also found that, due to a lack of access to healthcare, people from lower education and income groups are less likely to be diagnosed with alopecia areata. Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune...

Immunotherapy is one of the newer treatment options for improving survivability in patients diagnosed with lung cancer. However, a recent study reports that lower-income and less educated people are less likely to receive these novel drugs, contributing to cancer treatment disparities. Lung cancer is among the leading causes of death in U.S. men and women....

A March 2023 report by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and  Immunology states that environmental injustice, which includes substandard housing, higher exposure to pollutants, higher exposure to violence and psychological stress, and other factors, is the major cause of health disparities and the higher prevalence of allergies in people of color. The Diversity, Equity,...

A new Korean study explored how household income influences healthcare utilization by children living with allergies. It found that those from higher socioeconomic status and children older than 13 years were more likely to seek help with allergies. In the last few decades, the incidence of allergies has risen considerably in low- and middle-income nations....

Has your doctor recommended dupilumab for your child with atopic dermatitis, but you’re unsure about the long-term benefits and safety? A recent study provides some promising answers for this treatment for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Dupilumab has been shown to provide rapid relief of severe eczema symptoms. The medication has a good safety profile with only...

Medically reviewed by Dr. Samuel Sarmiento, M.D., MPH on Oct. 4, 2023 This study found a significantly higher burden of all respiratory infections, including respiratory syncytial virus, among Blacks and Hispanics in the United States. Hence, the study confirmed that social inequalities result in a higher risk of respiratory infections, including RSV. This study is a systematic...

Medically reviewed by Dr. Samuel Sarmiento, M.D., MPH on Oct. 4, 2023 A recent study of pediatric lupus nephritis disease activity and severity in pediatric-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients found that renal C4d shows promise as a biomarker for renal disease in this patient population. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting multiple systems....