Seasonal Oxidative Stress and Airway Reactivity in Rhinitis: Distinct Patterns in Allergic vs. Non-allergic...

Area of Science:

• Environmental health
• Respiratory medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• Rhinitis, encompassing allergic (AR) and non-allergic (NAR) types, is a prevalent upper airway condition.
• While air pollution's effects on AR are known, its impact on NAR remains less understood.
• Understanding these differences is crucial for targeted management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the seasonal effects of air pollution on pulmonary function, oxidative stress, and airway reactivity in AR, NAR, and healthy individuals.
• To differentiate the specific impacts of pollution on AR versus NAR phenotypes.

Main Methods:

• A prospective case-control study involving 58 participants (AR, NAR, controls).
• Evaluations were conducted during low (summer) and high (winter) pollution seasons.
• Assessments included symptom questionnaires, pulmonary function tests, bronchial provocation tests (BPT), and oxidative stress biomarkers (TAS, total oxidative status).

Main Results:

• Non-allergic rhinitis (NAR) patients exhibited reduced total antioxidant status (TAS) and decreased forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) during high pollution, indicating increased oxidative stress and airway reactivity.
• Allergic rhinitis (AR) patients showed increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BPT reactivity).
• Pulmonary function declined in all groups during winter, with the most significant reduction in AR patients.

Conclusions:

• Seasonal air pollution has distinct effects on AR and NAR phenotypes.
• AR is associated with increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness, while NAR is linked to diminished antioxidant capacity.
• Phenotype-specific monitoring and management are essential during high environmental pollution exposure.