Effects of Airway Mucus Plugs on Lung Function Using Xenon MRI in Adults with Severe Asthma Starting Biologic Therapy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of mucus plugs in the lungs of patients with severe asthma using xenon MRI. This imaging technique will be used alongside CT scans to identify mucus plugs and evaluate how they affect lung ventilation and gas exchange in affected regions. The study focuses on understanding lung function impairments caused by these mucus plugs in people with severe asthma. The study involves pulmonary magnetic resonance imaging using hyperpolarized xenon-129 gas as an inhaled contrast agent to assess lung function. Patients who are about to start asthma therapy with biologic treatments such as dupilumab, tezepelumab, or benralizumab as part of their usual care will be observed. The imaging will help detect ventilation defects in lung regions downstream of mucus blockages. Participants will undergo imaging assessments including xenon MRI and CT scans to evaluate ventilation defects and changes over time. Researchers will measure ventilation defects in mucus-blocked regions at 12 weeks, with additional evaluations of ventilation defect percentage changes at 4 and 12 weeks. The study includes careful monitoring of lung function and safety assessments. The total participation period includes these imaging and functional assessments to understand the impact of mucus plugs in severe asthma.

Downstream Effects of Airway Mucus Plugs on 129Xenon MRI in Severe Asthma