The International Study of the Allergic Rhinitis Survey: outcomes from 4 geographical regions

Abstract

BackgroundAllergic rhinitis (AR) is a global health problem and is characterised by one or more symptoms, including sneezing, itching, nasal congestion and rhinorrhea.ObjectiveWe investigated the features of AR and the physician's approach to the management of AR patients in four geographical regions.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire survey concerning AR was completed by Honorary and Corresponding Members of the Italian Society of Rhinology from different countries among 4 world geographical regions—Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa.ResultsThe prevalence of AR was reported to be 15%–25%. Children and adolescents, as well as young adults, were the age groups more affected by AR with comorbidities of asthma, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, and nasal polyposis. Nasal symptoms of AR were more intense in the spring (51.92%) and autumn (28.85%). The most common aero-allergens were pollen and mites (67.31%), animal dander and pollutants (23.08%), and fungal allergens (21.15%). Allergen-specific immunotherapy was prescribed for both perennial and seasonal allergens (32.69%) via sublingual swallow (46.15%) and subcutaneous (32.69%) routes. For the AR patients, the most prescribed drugs were intranasal corticosteroids (86.54%) and oral H1-antihistamines (82.69%).ConclusionA network of experts can improve our knowledge concerning AR epidemiology, and together with guidelines, could assist practitioners and otolaryngologists in standardising the diagnosis and treatment of AR.

Characterization of ocular and nasopharyngeal microbiome in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis

“…Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC) is a common allergic disease with a globally average incidence rate of 10%-20% with a greater prevalence among the pediatric populations. 1 The proportion of children with ARC is on the rise in the past few decades and up to 40% of the children are affected nowadays. 2 Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis is mainly caused by hypersensitivity to specific aeroallergens, leading to local IgE synthesis and histamine release.…”

Triamcinolone Acetonide versus Fluticasone Propionate in the Treatment of Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: A Randomized, Parallel-Group Trial

“…Nasal congestion is the most prominent symptom of AR (manifesting as nasal blockage [94.23%], followed by rhinorrhea [90.38%]) [3, 8]. Since these symptoms interfere with a patient’s ability to eat, sleep, and function, and significantly impact QoL, especially in patients with persistent AR, it is important to treat nasal inflammation and restore normal breathing.…”

“…Overall, 45/52 (86.54%) rhinology experts prescribed intranasal corticosteroids and 43/52 (82.69%) prescribed oral H 1 antihistamines to patients with AR. Moreover, it was reported that the combination of intranasal antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids was prescribed by 18/52 (34.62%) rhinology experts [3]. Intranasal sprays are recommended as targeted therapy for AR by providing direct delivery of the medication to the nasal mucosa, reducing the potential for systemic adverse effects, decreasing the burden of disease, and improving QoL [10].…”

“…AR therapy is primarily based on allergen avoidance, symptomatic pharmacotherapy, and immunotherapy [3]. Based on the pathophysiology of the disease, corticosteroids are one of the main treatment options that prevent or suppress inflammation and immune responses to the inciting specific allergen in patients with PAR.…”

“…In the last decades, the burden of AR has witnessed a steep increase alongside industrialization, climate change, and air pollution. The increased prevalence is largely attributed to both early and increased exposure to allergens, irritants, and pollutants, as well as changes in lifestyle [2, 3]. …”