[Allergic rhinitis and asthma: pathophysiological relationship and implications for treatment]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pulmonology
• Allergy

Context:

• Allergic rhinitis and asthma frequently coexist, sharing clinical and immunological features.
• Emerging evidence suggests bidirectional communication between the upper and lower airways via systemic signaling.
• This understanding supports the unified concept of 'allergic airway disease'.

Purpose:

• To explore the concept of allergic airway disease, unifying allergic rhinitis and asthma.
• To review current and emerging systemic treatment strategies for this condition.
• To highlight existing therapies in the Netherlands targeting united airway disease mechanisms.

Summary:

• The concept of allergic airway disease integrates allergic rhinitis and asthma due to shared characteristics and airway cross-talk.
• Novel systemic treatments like anti-IgE and phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors are under investigation.
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists and immunotherapy are currently registered systemic options in the Netherlands, often used with standard pharmacotherapy.

Impact:

• Provides a rationale for systemic treatment approaches in managing coexisting allergic rhinitis and asthma.
• Highlights the potential of novel systemic therapies for improving patient outcomes.
• Informs clinical practice regarding current systemic treatment options for united airway disease.