Allergy and the nose

Clin Exp Immunol. 2008 Sep;153 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):22-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03717.x.

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the most common immunological disorder and is characterized by an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated inflammation induced by the allergen exposure. This review will consider some issues concerning pathophysiological aspects of AR: impact on asthma, response to decongestion, link with infections, response to specific immunotherapy, relationship with adiposity, effects on quality of life (QoL) and allergic inflammation. AR, even though not a serious illness, may be a clinically relevant disorder as it may present numerous complications and affect QoL, as reported in this review. Therefore, the management of AR patients should be rigorously careful and multi-disciplinary.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allergens / immunology*
  • Animals
  • Eosinophilia / immunology
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Immunoglobulin E / immunology
  • Nasal Mucosa / immunology*
  • Rhinitis / immunology*
  • Th2 Cells / immunology

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Immunoglobulin E