The October issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology focuses on key clinical areas of urticaria and asthma.
The issue has both reviews on the pathway and role of mast cells in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) as well as potential novel therapies in CSU. In the review by Drs. Taek Ki Min and Sarbjit S. Saini, new potential drugs and mechanisms that could treat CSU are discussed, including mast cell agents and those that target IgE. This article fits nicely with the review by Dr. Francesca Levi-Schaffer and colleagues on the role of mast cells and signaling in urticaria – including the important role of receptors in both triggering and inhibiting mast cell activity.
For our original articles, there are a series of articles examining different aspects of asthma and its care. Two articles cover differing aspects of public health and asthma. Dr. Anne M. Fitzpatrick and colleagues focus on the role of diesel exposure and its effects on inflammation and worsening asthma, while Dr. Semmy A. Adeleke and colleagues study implementation of asthma stock medications in schools. Dr. Jonathan A. Bernstein and colleagues examine the efficacy of mepolizumab in patients with comorbid asthma and nasal polyps, adding another medication for patients with multiple atopic conditions.
Food allergy is not forgotten in this issue. Two letters examine factors associated with disease severity. Dr. Helena Pires Pereira and colleagues explore fish allergy, while Dr. Valentina Faihs’ manuscript focuses on wheat and factors that lead to cross reactivity with spelt. Dr. Christina J. Jones and colleagues discuss their experience with psychological interventions for patients with food allergy.
Finally, there is an editorial memorializing our dear colleague, Dr. Ikuo Hirano, who bridged the gap between allergy and gastroenterology. He was the essence of collaboration and brought teamwork and excellent patient care to patients with EoE. It is important to honor providers who give excellent care and lead our research efforts.
Enjoy the fall weather! We look forward to seeing everyone at the upcoming College Annual Meeting in Boston. As always, if you have any comments, please consider sending correspondence to Annals (email us at annals@ACAAI.org). We are always excited to hear how Annals has helped you improve the lives of your patients!
Jonathan Spergel, MD, PHD, FACAAI
Deputy Editor
