Executive summary of EPOS 2020 including integrated care pathways.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Allergy and Immunology

Background:

• The European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps (EPOS) guidelines have been periodically updated since 2005.
• The previous iteration, EPOS2012, provided a foundation for rhinosinusitis management.
• Significant advancements in research and clinical practice necessitate updated recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide revised, evidence-based recommendations for Acute Rhinosinusitis (ARS) and Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS).
• To establish integrated care pathways for ARS and CRS management.
• To update guidance on definitions and outcome measurements for rhinosinusitis research.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies published since EPOS2012.
• Inclusion of new stakeholders such as pharmacists and patients in guideline development.
• Addressing areas not extensively covered in previous EPOS papers, including pediatric CRS and sinus surgery.

Main Results:

• EPOS2020 presents updated literature and research findings.
• The guideline incorporates new stakeholders and target users in rhinosinusitis management.
• It addresses pediatric CRS and sinus surgery, expanding upon previous guidelines.

Conclusions:

• EPOS2020 provides current, evidence-based recommendations for rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps.
• The guidelines emphasize integrated care pathways and involve a broader range of healthcare professionals and patients.
• Future research directions and updated measurement standards are proposed.