Inter-societal Survey on the topical nasal treatments in Italy

Topical nasal therapy represents a widespread opportunity to treat upper airway diseases. As a result, specialists in different areas (mainly ENT, pediatrics, and allergology) and general practitioners prescribe intranasal compounds. However, a myriad of products and devices are available, as well as respiratory disorders. Consequently, this matter is debatable, and no guideline organically addresses this issue. Considering these premises, a restricted panel of qualified experts promoted an initial multidisciplinary survey involving only Fellows of some Scientific Societies belonging to ENT, pediatrics, and allergology areas. The survey included a series of queries concerning practical aspects of topical nasal therapy (treated disease, devices, and agents). A web platform served to participate in this survey. Each participant anonymously completed the questionnaire. Four hundred and forty-five doctors participated in the survey. There was a homogeneous distribution in Italy. Most participants were pediatricians (37%), followed by allergologists (31%) and ENT specialists (24%). Almost all doctors (95%) used topical nasal therapy. The most common diseases topically treated were allergic rhinitis (79%), chronic rhinosinusitis (73%), and non-allergic rhinitis. The most popular devices were pre-dosed spray both for nasal irrigation (67%) and nebulization (66%). Corticosteroids (67%), isotonic saline (63%), hyaluronic acid, hypertonic saline, and antihistamines (39%) were the most common agents used for intranasal therapy. Combined antihistamine/corticosteroids were also commonly used (38%). The most frequent schedule was the cyclic treatment. Most doctors (89%) claim they adequately spend time educating patients on this matter. In conclusion, topical nasal therapy is commonly used to manage upper respiratory diseases. However, the disagreement about some issues requires greater knowledge of the topics and the need to develop new studies, including pragmatic ones.