Nonallergic rhinitis in children

William E Berger1, J Ellen Schonfeld

  • 1Allergy and Asthma Associates of Southern California, 27800 Medical Center Road, Suite 244, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, USA.

Insights

Pediatric nonallergic rhinitis lacks clear definition and treatment guidelines. Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) may be a key factor in children with chronic rhinitis and related conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Allergy and Immunology

Background:

  • Nonallergic rhinitis in children is poorly defined, with unknown incidence and treatment based on adult data.
  • The underlying mechanisms of pediatric nonallergic rhinitis remain unclear.
  • Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is under investigation for its role in upper airway diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the potential role of LPR in pediatric nonallergic rhinitis.
  • To highlight LPR as a differential diagnosis for children with chronic rhinitis and negative allergy tests.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current understanding of LPR and its association with upper airway conditions.
  • Clinical consideration of LPR in the differential diagnosis of pediatric rhinitis.

Main Results:

  • Substantial evidence links LPR to rhinitis, sinus disease, and middle ear disease.
  • LPR is a potential contributor to pediatric nonallergic rhinitis.

Conclusions:

  • LPR should be considered in the differential diagnosis of nonallergic rhinitis in children, especially those with chronic rhinitis and negative allergy tests.
  • Clinicians should consider LPR in children with recurrent comorbidities like chronic sinusitis or persistent middle ear disease.

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