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Perennial allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis: correlation with rhinologic risk factors
S Berrettini1, A Carabelli, S Sellari-Franceschini
1Neuroscience Department, University of Pisa, Italy.
Allergy
|May 13, 1999
Summary
Patients with perennial allergic rhinitis have a significantly higher risk of developing sinusitis. While allergy is linked to sinusitis, the exact causes require further investigation into immunologic mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- The relationship between allergy and sinusitis is inconsistent across studies.
- The precise role of allergy in predisposing individuals to sinusitis remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if patients with perennial allergic rhinitis face a greater risk of developing sinusitis compared to a control group.
- To explore correlations between rhinomanometry, endoscopy, nasal swabs, and computed tomography (CT) findings in allergic rhinitis patients.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans of paranasal sinuses were performed on 40 adult patients with perennial allergic rhinitis and 30 controls.
- Allergic patients underwent nasal endoscopy, nasal swab, and active anterior rhinomanometry, with results correlated to CT findings.
Main Results:
- Sinusitis was detected in 67.5% of allergic patients versus 33.4% of controls (P = 0.017).
- Nasal swabs were positive in 23 patients, rhinomanometry showed increased resistance in 22, and endoscopy was positive in 36.
- No statistically significant association was found between CT findings and endoscopy, rhinomanometry, or nasal swab results.
Conclusions:
- Perennial allergic rhinitis is frequently associated with sinusitis.
- The pathogenesis of chronic sinusitis in allergic patients likely involves immunologic mechanisms and other factors beyond pathogen growth or mechanical issues.