Pharmacologic management of chronic rhinosinusitis, alone or with nasal polyposis

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) commonly present with nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, facial pressure/pain, and hyposmia of prolonged duration. Recent evidence suggests that, despite clinical similarities, CRS and CRSwNP are distinct entities with separate inflammatory pathways and cytokine profiles. Antibiotics and nasal steroids are the mainstay of treatment in CRS, whereas combination systemic and nasal steroids are the foundation of CRSwNP management. Allergy therapy may play a significant role in CRS, whereas antileukotriene therapy has demonstrated promise in CRSwNP. Although prolonged medical therapy is usually necessary with both disorders, surgery may also be required to relieve refractory symptoms, and to improve sinus aeration and nasal access for topical therapy.