Acupuncture for allergic rhinitis: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Immunology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent inflammatory nasal condition impacting global health.
• Existing treatments necessitate complementary or alternative approaches.
• Acupuncture shows promise for AR by modulating autonomic, neuroendocrine, and immune systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on acupuncture-related therapies for allergic rhinitis.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of various acupuncture techniques for AR management.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, etc.) for randomized controlled trials from 2002-2022.
• Network meta-analysis using Stata and RevMan to compare different acupuncture interventions.
• Assessment of clinical efficacy, bone mineral density, Visual Analogue Scale, and adverse reactions using GRADE criteria.

Main Results:

• The analysis will synthesize data on the effectiveness of acupuncture therapies for allergic rhinitis.
• Key outcome measures include clinical efficacy, bone mineral density, and patient-reported pain.
• Safety will be assessed through the evaluation of adverse reactions.

Conclusions:

• This network meta-analysis will provide high-quality evidence on acupuncture for allergic rhinitis.
• Findings will inform clinical practice and guide future research in non-pharmacological AR treatments.
• The study aims to establish acupuncture as a viable therapeutic option for managing allergic rhinitis.