Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2026

Absorption of Nasal and Bronchial Fluids: Precision Sampling of the Human Respiratory Mucosa and Laboratory Processing of Samples
Published on: January 21, 2018
Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis
Amber Luong1, Bradley F Marple
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) involves nasal polyposis and Aspergillus. This review clarifies AFRS pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment options, enhancing understanding of this complex sinus condition.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Allergy Immunology
- Mycology
Background:
- Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) shares similarities with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA).
- First described in 1976, AFRS is characterized by nasal polyposis, crusting, and Aspergillus in sinus cultures.
- Despite extensive study, the etiology, pathogenesis, and optimal treatment of AFRS remain subjects of ongoing debate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data and theories on the pathophysiology of AFRS.
- To elucidate the clinical presentation of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis.
- To discuss the efficacy of various surgical and nonsurgical therapeutic approaches for AFRS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing clinical studies and theoretical data on AFRS.
- Synthesis of information regarding the disease's development and manifestation.
- Analysis of treatment strategies, encompassing both surgical and medical interventions.
Main Results:
- Accumulating clinical evidence has improved the understanding of AFRS.
- Ongoing research continues to shed light on various aspects of the disease.
- Controversies surrounding AFRS etiology and pathogenesis persist but are being addressed.
Conclusions:
- A better understanding of AFRS pathophysiology and clinical presentation has been achieved.
- Current therapeutic strategies for AFRS include both surgical and nonsurgical options.
- Further research is needed to fully resolve controversies and optimize AFRS management.
Related Concept Videos
Epistaxis
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...
Fungal Group Zygomycota
Fungal Phylum Ascomycota
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Antifungal Agents

