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Updated: Jul 24, 2026
16:56
Sublingual Immunotherapy as an Alternative to Induce Protection Against Acute Respiratory Infections
Published on: August 30, 2014
Immune dysfunction in refractory sinusitis in a tertiary care setting.
L Chee1, S M Graham, D G Carothers
1Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA.
The Laryngoscope
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Primary immunodeficiency states are a significant cause of refractory sinusitis. Immunological testing is crucial for diagnosing immune dysfunction in patients with persistent sinusitis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Refractory sinusitis affects a significant number of patients.
- Primary immunodeficiency states are rare but can contribute to chronic infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of primary immunodeficiency states in patients with refractory sinusitis.
- To determine the incidence of immune dysfunction in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 316 patients with sinusitis referred for immunological evaluation.
- Inclusion criteria: at least one sinus surgery or recurrent sinusitis (3+ times/year).
- Exclusion criteria: HIV, allergic fungal sinusitis, cystic fibrosis, primary ciliary dyskinesia.
Main Results:
- 50.6% of patients had positive skin tests for aeroallergens.
- 40% of patients were anergic to delayed hypersensitivity.
- Significant rates of abnormal T-lymphocyte function and low immunoglobulin levels were observed.
- Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) diagnosed in 9.9%, selective IgA deficiency in 6.2%.
Conclusions:
- An unexpectedly high incidence of immune dysfunction was found in patients with refractory sinusitis.
- Immunological testing should be a routine part of evaluating patients with persistent sinusitis.
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