Advances in the medical treatment of nasal polyps

The objectives of the medical management of nasal polyposis are to eliminate or reduce the size of polyps, re-establish nasal breathing, reduce symptoms of rhinitis, restore the sense of smell and prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps. Corticosteroids have a proven therapeutic effect on the symptoms of nasal polyposis and may reduce one of the underlying causes of polyps, inflammation. The efficacy of topical corticosteroids such as beclomethasone dipropionate nasal spray and betamethasone nasal drops in reducing polyp size and rhinitis symptoms has been demonstrated in several randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Flunisolide and budesonide have also been shown to delay the recurrence of polyps after surgery. Topical corticosteroids can be used as long-term therapy either alone in mild cases, or combined with systemic corticosteroids and/or surgery in severe cases. Most patients will respond well to topical corticosteroid treatment of their nasal polyposis; consequently, the requirement for repetitive nasal surgery will be reduced.