Perceptions and Management of Allergic Rhinitis Among Ecuadorian Otorhinolaryngologists: A Survey-Based Study

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Allergology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) poses a significant healthcare burden.
• Evidence-based guidelines for AR management exist, but physician adherence varies.
• Understanding local physician practices is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Ecuadorian otorhinolaryngologists' (ENTs) perceptions of AR epidemiology.
• To evaluate ENTs' current preferences and practices in diagnosing and managing AR.
• To identify potential gaps in AR care among Ecuadorian specialists.

Main Methods:

• An observational, cross-sectional survey study was conducted.
• 116 Ecuadorian ENTs completed a 30-question survey on AR.
• Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographic and clinical variables.

Main Results:

• Most ENTs (68.1%) favored computed tomography (CT) scans for AR diagnosis, while only 10.3% used skin prick tests (SPT).
• Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) was utilized by 36.4% of participants.
• Participants perceived increasing AR prevalence, particularly in children and adolescents, linked to environmental factors.

Conclusions:

• Ecuadorian ENTs recognize an increasing trend in AR prevalence and identify children/adolescents as the most affected group.
• Significant unmet needs exist in AR diagnosis and management, notably the high reliance on CT scans and low utilization of AIT.
• Targeted interventions are needed to align Ecuadorian ENT practices with evidence-based guidelines for AR.