[ORL versus naso-sinusal allergy]

Clinical examination of the nasal fossae and sinuses, and the picture formed by the Rhinologist allows him to classify the patient into one of the following three categories: Local inflammation, of which the solution is often surgical. Nasal sinus inflammations that have their origin in a disturbance, perhaps in the mucociliary system (mucoviscidosis) or perhaps in the immune system (allergy, repeated infections). Non-specific inflammation, eosinophils, associated or not with asthma (Nares, polyps, Fernand-Widal) and intolerances of drugs or chemicals. Some arguments plead in favour of allergic origin of inflammation. But the Rhinologist must give constant regard to the physico-pathological mechanisms of the nasal and sinus mucosae. The multiplicity of the mediators of inflammation. The mechanism of nasal vasomotricity. The role of the eosinophil in inflammation. Are such elements that are indispensible to his understanding.