Using nasal steroids to treat nasal obstruction caused by adenoid hypertrophy: does it work?

To systematically review the evidence for the usage of nasal steroids to improve symptoms of nasal airway obstruction in children with adenoidal hypertrophy.

Published studies indexed in the MEDLINE (1951 to 2008), EMBASE (1974 to 2008), and the Cochrane databases (Issue 3, 2008).

Data from the included trials were extracted and trial quality was assessed. Meta-analysis was not applicable and data were summarized in a narrative format. Evidence from excluded studies was also discussed.

Seven studies (six randomized controlled trials and one cohort study) met the inclusion criteria of the review, including a total of 493 patients. Six of these studies demonstrated significant efficacy of various nasal steroids (mometasone, beclomethasone, flunisolide) in improving nasal obstruction symptoms and in reducing adenoid size, as measured with symptom scores and fiber-optic nasopharyngeal endoscopy, respectively. The response appeared to be a group effect and may be maintained longer-term by continuing nasal steroids at a lower maintenance dose. The treatment was safe and well-tolerated with few minor adverse events.

The available evidence suggests that nasal steroids may significantly improve nasal obstruction symptoms in children with adenoid hypertrophy. This improvement appears to be associated with a reduction of adenoid size. Evidence of long-term efficacy is limited but suggests that in many children maintenance therapy is needed if symptom-relief is to persist. Further studies are required to support the use of nasal steroids as a first-line approach in these children.