The association between allergy and chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyps: an evidence‐based review with recommendations. Issue 2 (2nd January 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wilson, Kevin F.; McMains, K. Christopher; Orlandi, Richard R.
• Is Part Of: International forum of allergy & rhinology. Volume 4:Issue 2(2014:Feb.)
• Page Start: 93
• Page End: 103
• Publication Date: 2014-01-02
• Subjects: 617.51005
• DOI: 10.1002/alr.21258
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-6976

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec id="alr21258-sec-0010" sec-type="section"> <title>Background</title> <p>The relationship between allergy and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remains ill‐defined and controversial. The association between the 2 is unclear, making an evidence‐based decision of whether to evaluate and treat allergies in CRS patients difficult. The purposes of this systematic review are to (1) examine the relationship between allergy and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), (2) examine the same for allergy and CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), and (3) recommend evaluation and treatment based on the evidence.</p> </sec> <sec id="alr21258-sec-0020" sec-type="section"> <title>Methods</title> <p>A structured literature search was performed to identify articles examining the link between allergy and CRSsNP and CRSwNP. Pertinent articles were examined for evidence for an association between allergy and CRSsNP and/or CRSwNP.</p> </sec> <sec id="alr21258-sec-0030" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>A total of 24 articles were found that met the inclusion criteria; 18 articles examined the relationship between allergy and CRSwNP, with 10 articles showing an association, 7 articles showing no association, and 1 article showing a possible association. Nine articles examined the relationship between allergy and CRSsNP, with 4 articles showing an association and 5 articles showing no association. Four studies directly compared the role of allergy in CRSwNP and CRSsNP, and, again, the results were mixed. No articles examined the outcomes of CRSsNP or CRSwNP following allergy treatment.</p> </sec> <sec id="alr21258-sec-0040" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusion</title> <p>The role of allergy in CRSwNP and CRSsNP continues to be controversial, with the level of evidence poor. Based on the available data, the recommendation is that allergy testing and treatment are an <italic>option</italic> in CRSwNP and CRSsNP.</p> </sec> </abstract>