The rhinitis control assessment test: implications for the present and future

To summarize the development of the Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (RCAT), its usefulness in clinical practice, and the benefit it provides for patients who are bothered by allergic and nonallergic rhinitis.

The RCAT, a simple, brief, self-administered questionnaire, was developed to assist physicians in the assessment of patient's rhinitis control in clinical practice. It was also to help patients appreciate what rhinitis control is. The RCAT generates a rhinitis score that can be easily understood and is appropriate for long-term monitoring of rhinitis control.

Rhinitis control remains an elusive goal for physicians and patients. Having a patient-rated screening instrument, like the RCAT, to assist in achieving this goal was felt to be important. If used appropriately, it reflects the multidimensional aspect of rhinitis control. It should also result in an improvement in the quality of care for patients with rhinitis.