The clinical spectrum of rhinosinusitis in children

G Leo1, C Incorvaia

  • 1Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Pathophysiology Unit, Istituti Clinici di Perfezionamento, Milan, Italy. gualtiero.leo@icp.mi.it

Insights

Rhinosinusitis, a common condition often missed in children, encompasses acute and chronic forms. Allergic fungal sinusitis is a key type to consider in children with nasal polyposis and atopy.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Allergy and Immunology

Background:

  • Rhinosinusitis is a prevalent upper airway inflammatory condition.
  • It presents across a spectrum, including acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).
  • Associated conditions like nasal polyposis, asthma, and reflux can complicate rhinosinusitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the clinical spectrum of rhinosinusitis.
  • To highlight the characteristics of different rhinosinusitis forms, including fungal types.
  • To emphasize the importance of recognizing allergic fungal sinusitis in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

  • Review of the clinical presentation and classification of rhinosinusitis.
  • Description of associated disorders and specific fungal variants.
  • Focus on diagnostic considerations for pediatric cases.

Main Results:

  • Rhinosinusitis is common but often underreported, particularly in children.
  • Chronic rhinosinusitis is defined by symptoms lasting over 12 weeks.
  • Allergic fungal sinusitis is the most frequent fungal form, often linked to pediatric nasal polyposis and atopy.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the diverse presentations of rhinosinusitis is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  • Pediatric rhinosinusitis requires careful evaluation, especially when associated with comorbidities.
  • Suspecting allergic fungal sinusitis is vital in children presenting with nasal polyposis and atopy.

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