[Perennial rhinitis due to bacterial allergy (author's transl)]

Bacterial allergy causing perennial rhinitis remains a controversial nosological entity. Clinically, however, many cases of perennial rhinopathy do fit into the definition of this disease, and may represent a late stage of earlier inhalant allergy. It is characterized by positive delayed (type IV) skin tests with bacterial extracts as well as by a pronounced tendency to oedema and polyp formation. Topically applied steroids seem to provide sufficient prophylactic protection. Acute bacterial infections or any nasal surgery, however, require antibiotic treatment.