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Sensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Jennifer Altamura Namazy1, Ronald A Simon
1Division of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Scripps Clinic, La Jolla, California 92037, USA. janamazy@yahoo.com
Summary
Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) presents varied symptoms. Oral aspirin challenge is key for diagnosis, while desensitization offers treatment for refractory cases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Aspirin can trigger diverse reactions, including respiratory and skin issues.
- Cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes 1 and 2 are implicated in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review classification, clinical features, pathogenesis, and treatments for aspirin-related diseases.
- To address the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges posed by aspirin sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of MEDLINE using terms like 'aspirin-sensitive asthma' and 'cyclo-oxygenase enzymes'.
- Inclusion of review articles, randomized control trials, and allergy/immunology textbooks.
Main Results:
- Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is complex with varied presentations.
- A proposed classification system aids literature comprehension and communication.
- Oral aspirin challenge is the gold standard for diagnosing respiratory and cutaneous reactions.
Conclusions:
- Classification, diagnosis, and treatment of aspirin sensitivity remain challenging.
- Understanding disease mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- Leukotriene modifiers may offer therapeutic benefits for AERD.