The role of macrolides in chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a heterogeneous condition, so personalized treatment based on each patient's pathophysiology is essential, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Drug therapy for CRS has evolved significantly in recent years with the introduction of biologics, necessitating a reconsideration of the role of low-dose and long-term administration of a 14-membered ring macrolide (macrolide therapy) in the treatment of CRS. Recent research on the mechanisms of macrolide therapy and its proper use may assist physicians in improving patients' quality of life and reducing disease burden.

A classification of the pathogenesis of CRS based on endotype has been proposed, with type 2 inflammation playing a particularly important role as a refractory factor. Macrolide therapy improves CRS via immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects rather than antimicrobial action, and it is expected to be effective in patients with neutrophil-dominant inflammation.

Understanding the effectiveness and limitations of macrolide therapy is critical for making the best treatment decisions, especially when combined with surgery and other pharmacologic therapies. Therefore, selecting appropriate patients for macrolide therapy is critical for achieving adequate therapeutic efficacy.