Local allergic rhinitis in Asia: rethinking the allergy landscape

Local allergic rhinitis (LAR) is increasingly recognized as a distinct phenotype of chronic rhinitis, yet its prevalence and characteristics in Asia remain underexplored. Given the variability in reported LAR prevalence across regions, this review re-evaluates the allergy landscape in Asia, considering environmental and immunological factors, as well as study methodology that may contribute to differences from Western populations.

There were more Asian studies which reported lower prevalence (0-20%), in contrast to higher rates in Europe, particularly Mediterranean countries. Urbanization, air pollution, and high dust mite exposure may be important factors of nonatopic rhinitis in Asia. Diagnostic approaches, including nasal-specific IgE and provocation tests, vary across studies, impacting prevalence estimates.

The lower reported LAR prevalence in Asia suggests potential differences in underlying mechanisms or diagnostic limitations. Further research is needed to refine diagnostic criteria, explore environmental triggers, and assess the clinical relevance of LAR in Asian populations. A better understanding of LAR in Asia could guide targeted management strategies and improve recognition of this condition in clinical practice.