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Ragweed allergic rhinitis and the paranasal sinuses. A computed tomographic study
R M Naclerio1, M L deTineo, F M Baroody
1Section of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Chicago, Ill, USA.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Allergic rhinitis patients often show sinus mucosal thickening, but this finding minimally impacts symptoms. Treatment improved quality of life, though sinus abnormalities persisted, suggesting limited clinical significance for these specific findings.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Allergy and Immunology
- Radiology
Background:
- Allergic rhinitis is a common condition affecting nasal passages.
- Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, can coexist with allergic rhinitis.
- The relationship between allergic rhinitis and underlying sinus mucosal changes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between allergic rhinitis and paranasal sinus mucosal abnormalities.
- To evaluate the impact of these abnormalities on patient-reported quality of life.
- To assess the effect of intranasal steroid treatment on symptoms and sinus findings.
Main Methods:
- Prospective clinical trial involving 10 subjects with symptomatic ragweed allergy.
- Paranasal sinus computed tomographic (CT) scans and Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) administered.
- Treatment with intranasal beclomethasone dipropionate, with follow-up CT scans and RQLQ assessments.
Main Results:
- 60% of subjects exhibited sinus mucosal thickening on initial CT scans.
- All participants reported symptomatic improvement during the study period.
- Sinus mucosal abnormalities persisted in follow-up scans despite symptom resolution and continued treatment.
Conclusions:
- Sinus mucosal thickening in allergic rhinitis patients may not significantly correlate with symptom severity.
- Intranasal steroid treatment effectively alleviates allergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Persistence of sinus abnormalities suggests they are a separate finding from acute allergic rhinitis symptoms.