Topical glucocorticosteroids in rhinitis: mode of action

The introduction of nasal glucocorticosteroids, more than 30 years ago, represents the most important therapeutic progress in rhinitis management since the introduction of the first generation of antihistamines. Our knowledge of the mode of action of glucocorticosteroids in the nose has improved as the airway mucous membrane of the nose is easily accessible for investigation. However, the exact mechanism behind the marked clinical effect remains unclear. The present article presents some of the important effects of topical glucocorticosteroids on pathophysiological events in the nasal mucosa.