Revision endoscopic sinus surgery rates by chronic rhinosinusitis subtype

Aberrant expressions of TAM receptors are associated with postoperative recurrence in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

OBJECTIVES

TAM receptors (TYRO3, AXL, and MER) play important roles in inflammatory responses, but their effects in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) remain elucidated. We aim to evaluate the values of TAM receptors in disease severity and postoperative recurrence of CRSwNP.

METHODS

We initially enrolled 160 patients with CRSwNP who were treated with functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and postoperative recurrence was evaluated during the follow-up period. Circulating TAM receptor levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and tissue expressions were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemical (IHC). The relationships between TAM receptor levels and postoperative recurrence were examined.

RESULTS

A total of 150 patients completed the follow-up schedule, 49 patients experienced postoperative recurrence and the remaining 101 patients were non-recurrent. In recurrent CRSwNP patients, serum levels of TAM receptors were increased compared to those in non-recurrent patients and were positively correlated with disease severity scores (P < 0.05). Circulating TYRO3 and MER were identified as potential predictors of postoperative recurrence based on receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and Kaplan-Meier plots (P < 0.05). Furthermore, tissue TAM receptor levels, as determined by both RT-PCR and IHC, were enhanced in the recurrent group than in the non-recurrent group (P < 0.05) and were predictive of postoperative recurrence (P < 0.05). Interestingly, circulating TYRO3 and MER concentrations, as well as tissue TYRO3 expression, were found to be significantly increased in patients who experienced postoperative recurrence (P < 0.05). IHC images from the same patients revealed that TAM expressions were enhanced in the recurrent tissues compared to their baseline tissue levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our laboratory results demonstrated that TAM receptors were increased in recurrent CRSwNP patients and associated with postoperative recurrence. Moreover, the new laboratory findings suggested that measuring circulating levels of TAM receptors might serve as a promising new approach to assess disease progression and predict the risk of postoperative recurrence.

Visual and bibliometric analysis of chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by persistent sinonasal inflammation and sinus microbiome dysbiosis. Nasal polyps (NPs) are one of the main manifestations that cause diverse clinical symptoms of CRS.

Objective

We sought to conduct a bibliometric and visual analysis of articles on CRS and NPs published between 2003 and 2022 to provide researchers with the current state of research and potential directions.

Methods

We searched relevant articles from 2003 to 2022 in the Web of Science database. VOSviewer and the Bibliometrix R package were used to perform the bibliometric analysis.

Results

A total of 3907 publications were retrieved. The United States made the highest contributions to global research, followed by China. Northwestern University had the most publications. The most published author was C. Bachert, followed by R. P. Schleimer and R. J. Schlosser. The authors with the most co-citations were C. Bachert, W. J. Fokkens, and P. Gevaert. Moreover, the journal with the most publications was the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology, and the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology was the most cited. "Covid-19," "biologics," and "type 2 inflammation" were the top current research hotspots.

Conclusions

The United States and Northwestern University were the leading country and institution in researching CRS and NPs. C. Bachert was the most influential expert. The International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology and the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology were leading journals. "Covid-19," "biologics," and "type 2 inflammation" were the trending topics.

All chronic rhinosinusitis endotype clusters demonstrate improvement in patient-reported and clinical outcome measures after endoscopic sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) endotypes show a differential response to endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). We explored patient mucous inflammatory cytokine expression and associations with patient-reported and clinically measured post-operative outcome measures.

METHODS

Patients with CRS were prospectively recruited between 2016 and 2021 into a national multicenter, observational study. Mucus was collected from the olfactory cleft preoperatively and evaluated for 26 biomarkers using cluster analysis. Patient-reported outcome measures included the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and Questionnaire of Olfactory Dysfunction (QOD). Additional clinical measures of disease severity included threshold, discrimination, and identification (TDI) scores using "Sniffin' Sticks" testing and Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score (LKES).

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients were clustered into type 2 inflammatory, non-type 2 inflammatory, noninflammatory, and two indeterminate clusters based on individual protein levels. Overall, the type 2 inflammatory cluster was found to have the highest mean improvement in both SNOT-22 (-28.3 [standard deviation, ±16.2]) and TDI (6.5 [standard deviation, ±7.9]) scores 6 months after ESS. However, on average, all endotype clusters demonstrated improvement in all outcome measures after ESS without statistically significant between-group differences in SNOT-22 (p = 0.738), QOD (p = 0.306), TDI (p = 0.358), or LKES (p = 0.514) measures.

CONCLUSIONS

All CRS endotype clusters responded favorably to surgery and showed improvements in patient-reported and objective outcome measures. Thus, ESS should be considered a more generalized CRS therapy, and benefits appear to not be limited to specific endotypes.

Benefits of Immunoglobulin (Ig) Replacement Therapy for Primary and Secondary Immunodeficiency in Chronic Rhinosinusitis

This is the first study to examine chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) outcomes after starting immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy for patients with primary (PID) and secondary immunodeficiency (SID). This is a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with CRS from 2018 to 2022 prior to initiating Ig therapy for the treatment of PID or SID. Outcomes included medication use and Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) scores. Ten patients met the inclusion criteria. PID and SID patients had a decrease in antibiotics (PID: 9.40 to 3.20, P = .05, SID: 8.20 to 2.00, P = .04) and steroids (PID: (5.40 to 0.60; P = .06; SID: 2.20 to 0.20, P = .047) prescribed in the year after Ig compared to the year prior. Patients with SID had a decrease in mean SNOT-22 scores by 12 months after Ig (47.50 to 20.50, P = 0.03). Patients receiving Ig for PID and SID showed decreased medication use and SID patients experienced subjective improvement in CRS symptoms in year-over-year comparison.

Evaluation and treatment of rhinosinusitis with primary antibody deficiency in adults: Evidence-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

There is clear evidence that the prevalence of primary antibody deficiency (PAD) is higher in patients with recurrent and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) than in the general population. The purpose of this multi-institutional and multidisciplinary evidence-based review with recommendations (EBRR) is to thoroughly review the literature on rhinosinusitis with PAD, summarize the existing evidence, and provide recommendations on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in patients with PAD.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from inception through August 2022. Studies on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients were included. An iterative review process was utilized in accordance with EBRR guidelines. Levels of evidence and recommendations on the evaluation and management principles for PAD were generated.

RESULTS

A total of 42 studies were included in this evidence-based review. These studies were evaluated on incidence of PAD in rhinosinusitis patients, incidence of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients, and on the different treatment modalities used and their outcome. The aggregate quality of evidence was varied across reviewed domains.

CONCLUSION

Based on the currently available evidence, PAD can occur in up to 50% of patients with recalcitrant CRS. Despite the presence of multiple studies addressing rhinosinusitis and PAD, the level of evidence supporting different treatment options continues to be lacking. Optimal management requires a multidisciplinary approach through collaboration with clinical immunology. There is need for higher-level studies that compare different treatments in patients with PAD and rhinosinusitis.

The Long-Term Implications of Rhinitis and Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Young Adults

BACKGROUND

The long-term impact of rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) on general health and medical services utilization in young adults have been limitedly studied.

METHODS

A case-control study in the Israeli Defense Forces, between the years 2005 and 2019, of all individuals with either rhinitis or CRS and a matched cohort of healthy individuals with a minimum of 5 years of consecutive follow-up.

RESULTS

The study groups included 617 patients with rhinitis and 296 patients with CRS and 2739 healthy controls with an average age of 28 years. During a mean follow-up of 8 years, a significant fraction of patients in both study groups were diagnosed with asthma compared to the control group, (26.1% and 23.3% vs. 3.7%, respectively; CI 95%: 12.1%-14.9%, p < 0.0001). 7.6% of patients with rhinitis developed CRS. Significantly increased loss of productivity and medical system utilization were noted in the study groups compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Moreover, deterioration in general health, manifested as loss of physical fitness for combative service was observed in a third of patients during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Rhinitis and CRS significantly impact productivity and medical service utilization in young adults, as well as general health associated with development of asthma and impairment of physical fitness. A minority of rhinitis patients develop CRS overtime, further affecting this patient group. These patients should be followed up and managed to improve disease control and associated outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 133:3299-3303, 2023.

Revision Rates and Symptom Trends Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Impact of Race on Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of demographics and sinonasal comorbidities on the revision rate of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

BACKGROUND

Although endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is often successful in providing long-term relief for patients suffering from CRS, revision surgery can occur. There is conflicting literature on the impact of race on FESS outcomes.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective cohort study of patients that underwent FESS for CRS between January 1, 2015 and June 1, 2021 at a single tertiary care academic center.

RESULTS

A total of 682 patients between the ages of 18 and 89 underwent primary ESS between January 1, 2015 and June 1, 2021 and were included in this study. Of these patients, 388 (56.9%) were female, with an average age of 48.6 ± 16.7. Thirty-eight patients (5.6%) underwent revision sinus surgery during the study period. Patients that identified as White had significantly lower rates of revision sinus surgery (4.1%) than non-White patients (10.7%), including those identifying as Asian, Black, multiracial, or other. On multivariate analysis, non-White race (OR 4.933), polyposis (3.175), and high preoperative SNOT-22 scores (OR 1.029) were independently associated with revision sinus surgery. The mean preoperative SNOT-22 for all participants was 39.1 ± 22.0, whereas the mean postoperative SNOT-22 was 20.6 ± 17.5 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Race plays an important role in outcomes following revision sinus surgery that is independent of location and insurance status. More studies are required to assess the reason race plays an important role in outcomes following revision sinus surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3 Laryngoscope, 133:2878-2884, 2023.

Is endoscopic sinus surgery sufficient to modify the evolution of adult AERD? Aspirin desensitization as a maintenance factor: systematic review

Introduction

Aspirin desensitization (AD) and aspirin therapy after desensitization (ATAD) are therapeutic interventions for patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD). Our aim is to investigate whether its addition to endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) improves the overall prognosis of the disease.

Methods

A systematic review of the current literature including adult patients with a positive diagnosis of AERD undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in the context or in absence of upper airway comorbidity, prior to AD + ATAD.

Conclusion

This review concludes that the surgical approach is beneficial in AERD, but its effects are short-lived. Surgery should be considered initially with subsequent AD + ATAD in AERD patients, due to the sustained improvement achieved compared to those receiving ESS alone.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus increases postoperative recurrence risk in Chinese patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

The effect of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on postoperative recurrence of chronic sinusitis (CRS) is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between T2DM and postoperative recurrence in CRS patients.

METHODS

CRS patients who underwent surgery in our hospital from January 2018 to April 2020 were included and followed up for three years. Patients were classified into non-recurrent and recurrent CRS groups based on follow-up outcome, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for postoperative recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 412 CRS patients were included of whom 68 had T2DM. The postoperative recurrence rate was significantly higher in the T2DM group compared to the non-T2DM group (p < .05). T2DM prevalence and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were higher in recurrent CRS patients than those in non-recurrent CRS cases (p < .05). Multivariate regression analyses showed that age, duration of disease, FBG, and comorbid allergic rhinitis (AR) were significantly associated with an increased risk of postoperative recurrence of CRS (p < .05). Furthermore, adjusted logistic regression model revealed that T2DM was an independent risk factor for postoperative recurrence of CRS (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated FBG levels may significantly influenced the postoperative recurrence of CRS in Chinese patients, and T2DM was an independent risk factor for recurrence.

Current and emerging biological therapies for Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps with type 2 inflammation

INTRODUCTION

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), especially CRSwNP with type 2 inflammation, remains the most difficult-to-treat subtype with high prevalence worldwide. The emergence of biologics has the potential to fulfill the unmet medical needs of patients with CRSwNP driven by type 2 inflammation.

AREAS COVERED

A current review of the literature was performed to overview current and emerging biological therapies in the treatment of CRSwNP.

EXPERT OPINION

In an era of precision medicine, biologics have been given expectations to provide customized therapies to patients with CRSwNP, particularly those with refractory CRSwNP. Large clinical trials and real-world experiences are both essential for the application of biologics. Moreover, to make biological therapy more tailored to patients, an in-depth understanding of the different mechanisms of biologics, further elucidating the relationship between biologics and conventional medical and surgical treatments, and identifying predictive biomarkers warrant thorough investigations.

Endoscopic sinus surgery outcomes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and immunoglobulin deficiencies

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and immunoglobulin deficiencies (ID) have more recalcitrant sinonasal disease and a subset of these patients undergo surgical management for their CRS. However, there is a paucity of literature on the surgical outcomes in this patient population and appropriate treatment algorithms for CRS in patients with ID. The objective of this study was to better elucidate the outcomes of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in patients with ID in terms of disease-specific quality-of-life scores and the need for revision surgery.

METHODS

A case-control study was performed comparing adult patients with ID and healthy controls that had undergone ESS for CRS. Patients were matched based on age, sex, CRS phenotype, and preoperative Lund-Mackay score. The revision surgery rates, time to revision surgery, and changes in sinonasal outcome tests (SNOT-22) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients with CRS and ID were matched to 26 control patients with CRS. The revision surgery rate for cases and controls was 31% and 12%, respectively, but there was no statistical difference (p > 0.05). There was a clinically meaningful reduction in SNOT-22 scores in both groups from the preoperative to postoperative period [mean of 12 points in patients with ID (p = 0.323) and 25 points in controls (p < 0.001)], however, there was again no significant difference between cases and controls (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggests that patients with ID have clinically meaningful improvement in SNOT-22 scores after ESS but may have higher revision rates than immunocompetent patients with CRS. ID are rare disease entities, thus most attempts at studying this cohort would be limited by sample size. Further homogenous data on immunoglobulin deficient patients is required for future meta-analysis to better understand the impact of ESS in patients with ID.

Considerations for shared decision-making in treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

Shared decision-making is an approach where physicians and patients work together to determine a personalized treatment course. Such an approach is integral to patient-centered care in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). CRSwNP is a chronic inflammatory condition of the sinonasal cavity that can severely impact physical health, smell, and quality of life (QOL). Traditional standard-of-care treatment options include topical (i.e. sprays) and oral corticosteroids and endoscopic sinus surgery, but more recently, novel corticosteroid delivery methods (i.e. high volume irrigations, recently-approved exhalation breath-powered delivering devices, and drug-eluting steroid implants) and 3 new FDA approved biologics directed against type II immunomodulators have become available. The availability of these therapeutics offers exciting new opportunities in CRSwNP management but requires personalized and shared-decision making as each modality has variable impacts on CRSwNP and related comorbid conditions. Studies have published treatment algorithms, but the practical use of these lean guidelines is heavily influenced by the lens of the treating physician, the most common being otolaryngologists and allergy immunologists. Clinical equipoise occurs when there is no basis for one intervention to be regarded as “better” than another. While most guidelines, in general, support the use of topical corticosteroids with or without oral corticosteroids followed by ESS for the majority of unoperated CRSwNP patients, there are situations of clinical equipoise that arise particularly in CRSwNP who have failed surgery or those with severe comorbid conditions. In the shared decision-making process, clinicians and patients must consider symptomatology, goals, comfort, compliance, treatment efficacy, and treatment cost when determining the initial choice of therapy and escalation of therapy with the potential use of multiple modalities for recalcitrant CRSwNP. A summary of salient considerations that might constitute shared decision-making is presented in this summary.

State of the Art Medical Management of Nasal Polyps

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is an inflammatory disease with a treatment goal of controlling symptoms and limiting disease burden. While endoscopic sinus surgery is effective for removing polyps and aerating sinuses, proper medical management remains necessary for reducing inflammation and limiting polyp recurrence.

OBJECTIVE

This article aims to summarize the literature regarding medical treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, with a specific focus on developments in the past 5 years.

METHODOLOGY

We conducted a literature review using PubMed to identify studies assessing medical treatment strategies for patients with CRSwNP. Articles focusing on chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis were excluded unless specifically stated. Surgical treatment and biologic therapies for CRSwNP will be covered in subsequent chapters and are therefore not included.

RESULTS

Intranasal saline irrigations and topical steroids are mainstays of CRSwNP treatment in the pre-surgical, post-surgical, and maintenance phases of the disease. Alternative steroid delivery methods and adjunctive treatments with antibiotics, anti-leukotrienes, and other topical therapies have been investigated and may benefit certain patient populations, but convincing evidence does not exist to warrant addition of these treatments to the standard of care for CRSwNP.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical steroid therapy is clearly effective for CRSwNP, and recent studies demonstrate the safety and efficacy of high-dose nasal steroid rinses. Alternate delivery methods for local steroids may be useful for patients who are not responding to or who are noncompliant with conventional intranasal corticosteroid sprays and rinses. Future studies are needed to clarify if oral or topical antibiotics, oral anti-leukotrienes, or other novel therapies are significantly effective in decreasing symptoms and improving the quality of life in patients with CRSwNP.

A comparative analysis of endoscopic sinus surgery versus biologics for treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis

BACKGROUND

Comparative effectiveness research between endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and biologic therapy for severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is a nascent field as new therapeutic modalities become clinically available.

METHODS

A prospective, multicenter cohort of CRSwNP patients, undergoing ESS between 2011 and 2019, were compared to phase-3 biologic trial data. Patients undergoing ESS received baseline nasal endoscopy quantified via Lund-Kennedy (LK) grading. Patients meeting inclusion criteria, modified from Dupilumab-LIBERTY-NP-24&52, omalizumab-POLYP-1&2, and Mepolizumab-SYNAPSE clinical trials, were included in this study. Baseline characteristics and outcome measures were compared between these cohorts at 24 weeks and 52 weeks, when possible.

RESULTS

A total of 111 CRSwNP patients met modified inclusion criteria. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline age, sex, asthma status, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease status, smell identification, LK-polyp score, and Lund-Mackay computed tomography (CT) scores between ESS and biologic groups. At 24 weeks, ESS demonstrated significantly greater improvements in 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) compared to one (of two) dupilumab trials (p < 0.05) and both omalizumab trials (p < 0.001). ESS associated with significantly lower nasal polyp scores (NPS) compared to dupilumab (p < 0.001) and omalizumab (p < 0.001), despite comparable improvements in smell identification (p > 0.05). At 52 weeks, ESS resulted in statistically similar improvement in SNOT-22 scores compared to dupilumab (p = 0.21), but NPS remained significantly lower in the ESS group compared to dupilumab (p < 0.001) and mepolizumab (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

At 24 weeks and 52 weeks, ESS offers comparable SNOT-22 improvements compared to dupilumab. ESS and dupilumab offer comparable improvement in smell identification at 24 weeks. Compared to omalizumab, ESS offers superior SNOT-22 improvements. ESS offers significantly greater reductions in polyp size compared to omalizumab, dupilumab, and mepolizumab therapies.

Risk Factors for Recalcitrant Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Organ Transplant Recipients

OBJECTIVE

Studies suggest that transplant patients are at risk for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, there is limited information in the literature regarding frequency and reasons for failure of adequate medical therapy. We aim to determine the risk factors associated with the development of medically recalcitrant CRS requiring endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort.

SETTING

Mayo Clinic.

METHODS

This is a retrospective chart review of 925 transplant recipients seen at Mayo Clinic between 2017 and 2022.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

(1) a rhinologic consultation after transplant and (2) clinical diagnosis of CRS. A total of 549 patients met the inclusion criteria and were divided based on the need for ESS versus successful treatment with medical therapy. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors and predictive variables related to failure of medical therapy.

RESULTS

Of the 549 patients, 201/549 (37%) had medically recalcitrant disease requiring ESS, while 348/549 (63%) were successfully treated with medical therapy Based on logistic regression, patients with recurrent acute rhinosinusitis in the pretransplant period were 8.68 more likely to have a recalcitrant disease (95% confidence interval, 3.72-20.28, p < 0.0001). Some of the largest determinants of medical therapy failure in the posttransplant period were CRS with nasal polyps, odontogenic CRS, and noninvasive fungal sinusitis. The presence of neutropenia, aplastic anemia, and living transplant were also associated with medically recalcitrant CRS requiring ESS.

CONCLUSION

Our predictive model identifies with high accuracy the patients who may be at risk of developing recalcitrant CRS in the organ transplant population.

Pathogenesis and treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis from the perspective of sinonasal epithelial dysfunction

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a clinical syndrome primarily characterized by long-term mucosal inflammation of the nasal cavity and sinuses. The pathogenesis of CRS is still unclear due to its high heterogeneity. A number of studies have recently focused on the sinonasal epithelium. Thus, there has been a quantum leap in awareness of the role of the sinonasal epithelium, which is now understood as an active functional organ rather than simply an inert mechanical barrier. Undoubtedly, epithelial dysfunction plays a vital role in the onset and development of CRS.

Objective

In this article, we discuss the potential contribution of sinonasal epithelium dysfunction to CRS pathogenesis and explore a few current and developing therapeutic options targeting the sinonasal epithelium.

Results

Impaired mucociliary clearance (MCC) and an abnormal sinonasal epithelial barrier are usually considered to be the main causative factors in CRS. Epithelial-derived bioactive substances, such as cytokines, exosomes, and complements, play a vital role in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity and contribute to the pathophysiological alterations of CRS. The phenomena of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), mucosal remodeling, and autophagy observed in CRS offer some novel insights into the pathogenesis of this disease. In addition, existing treatment options targeting disorder of sinonasal epithelium can help to relieve the main symptoms associated with CRS to some extent.

Conclusion

The presence of a normal epithelium is fundamental for maintaining homeostasis in the nasal and paranasal sinuses. Here, we describe various aspects of the sinonasal epithelium and highlight the contributions of epithelial dysfunction to CRS pathogenesis. Our review provides sound evidence of the need for in-depth study of the pathophysiological alterations of this disease and for the development of novel epithelium-targeting alternative treatments.

Significance of leukocyte-specific transcript 1 levels in nasal mucosal tissue to predict recurrence of nasal polyps

OBJECTIVE

Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Polyps (CRSwNP) is characterized by high heterogeneity and postoperative recurrence rate. This study aims to explore the clinical significance of tissue Leukocyte-Specific Transcript 1 (LST1) in predicting CRSwNP recurrence.

METHODS

We enrolled 62 CRSwNP patients including 30 primary CRSwNP and 32 recurrent CRSwNP patients, and 40 Healthy Controls (HC). Tissue samples were collected. Tissue LST1 expression was assessed by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), Western Blotting (WB) and Immunofluorescence (IF) staining. The predictive values of LST1 expression for CRSwNP postoperative recurrence were assessed through the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

The tissue levels of LST1 were significantly increased in the CRSwNP group than the HC group, especially in the recurrent group, and the elevated LST1 mRNA levels were positively correlated with the peripheral eosinophil percentages, tissue eosinophil counts and percentages. IF staining results showed that the LST1 protein levels were higher in CRSwNP patients, especially in the recurrent patients than in the HC group. ROC curves highlighted that tissue LST1 levels were associated with recurrent CRSwNP and exhibited a higher predictive ability for postoperative CRSwNP recurrence.

CONCLUSION

This was the first report suggesting that LST1 expression was upregulated and associated with mucosal eosinophil infiltration and CRSwNP recurrence. Tissue LST1 could be a promising biomarker for predicting postoperative recurrence in CRwNP patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 5.

Analysis of CRSsNP Proteome Using a Highly Multiplexed Approach in Nasal Mucus

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) represents a phenotype of CRS, whose immunological mechanisms are still unclear. So far there are neither suitable biomarkers to determine the course of the disease nor an individual therapy.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to characterize the CRSsNP endotype by identifying and validating non-invasive proteomic biomarkers.

METHODS

A highly-multiplexed proteomic array consisting of antibodies against 2000 proteins was used to identify proteins that are differentially expressed in the nasal mucus of the CRSsNP and control groups (n = 7 per group). The proteins identified to be most differentially expressed were validated in matched nasal mucus samples using western blots and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Validation was also done in a second cohort using western blots (CRSsNP n = 25, control n = 23) and ELISA (n = 30 per group). Additionally, immunohistochemistry in CRSsNP and control tissue samples was performed to characterize the selected proteins further.

RESULTS

Out of the 2000 proteins examined, 7 from the most differentially expressed proteins were chosen to be validated. The validation results showed that 4 proteins were significantly upregulated in CRSsNP mucus, including macrophage inflammatory protein-1beta (MIP-1β), resistin, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), and forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3). Cartilage acidic protein 1 (CRTAC1) was not significantly upregulated. Two proteins were significantly downregulated including scavenger receptor class F member 2 (SCARF2) and P-selectin. All proteins selected are mainly associated with inflammation, cell proliferation/differentiation, apoptosis and cell-cell or cell-matrix interaction.

CONCLUSION

Proteomic analysis of CRSsNP and control mucus has confirmed known and revealed novel disease-associated proteins that could potentially serve as a new biosignature for CRSsNP. Analysis of the associated pathways will specify endotypes of CRSsNP and will lead to an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of CRSsNP. Furthermore, our data contribute to the development of a reproducible, non-invasive, and quantitative "liquid biopsy" for rhinosinusitis.

Host and Surgical Factors Affecting the Frequency and Duration of Revision Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Background

Endoscopic sinus surgery is accepted as an effective surgical approach in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis. Different clinical pictures can be observed in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Unfortunately, the eradication of the disease is impossible in all cases even if it is performed by experienced surgeons. In a significant number of patients, the polyps may regenerate and symptoms may reappear more or less in different durations. Due to the complex pathophysiology of the disease, revision sinus surgery is accepted as a multifactorial problem. We investigated the possible host and surgical factors which are related to increased frequency and earlier revision surgeries in CRSwNP.

Methodology

Patients operated on two or more times between 2010 and 2020 were retrospectively identified. A total of 49 patients with CRSwNP (38 male, 11 female) were statistically analyzed. The effects of host and surgical factors on the frequency and duration of revision surgery in CRSwNP were assessed.

Results

Samter’s syndrome was noted to be a significant host factor affecting recurrence and revision surgeries. In addition, we observed significantly more frequent scarring and adhesions in patients with a higher number of operations.

Conclusions

Patients with Samter’s syndrome should be informed of possible revision surgeries. The soft and mucosa-preserving technique is important for less scarring and good postoperative results.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the curative effects and safety of endoscopic sinus surgery in children with chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

At present, the surgical treatment of sinusitis with nasal polyps has made great progress, but its recurrence rate is still high. Therefore, this time, meta-analysis is used to study the therapeutic effect of endoscopic sinus surgery on children with chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps, analyze its effectiveness and safety, and provide theoretical basis for clinical treatment.

METHODS

Boolean logic searching was adopted to retrieve articles from various databases, including PubMed, Medline, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), published from the establishment of the database to December 30, 2021. The following search terms were used: "endoscopic sinus surgery", "antrochoanal polyps", "chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps", and "nasal polyps". Comparative studies on traditional surgical treatment and endoscopic sinus surgery were also screened out. Review Manager was utilized for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 9 references were included in the study, and most of them were low risk bias (medium and high quality). Meta-analysis showed that there was no statistical heterogeneity between the control group and the experimental group (Chi²=0.03, I²=0%, P=0.98). According to the fixed effect model analysis, the number of patients with polyp formation in the experimental group was significantly less than that in the control group (Z=2.65, P=0.008). Compared with the control group, there is no statistical heterogeneity in the postoperative recurrence (Chi²=1.59, I²=0%, P=0.45). According to the analysis of fixed effect model, the postoperative recurrence in the experimental group is significantly less than that in the control group (Z=2.92, OR =2.78, 95% CI: 1.40-5.52, P=0.004). Compared with the control group, the results of postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) were statistically different (Chi²=12.63, I²=84%, P=0.002). According to the random effect model analysis, the VAS score of the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group (Z=18.06, MD =4.51, 95% CI: 3.96-5.05, P<0.00001).

DISCUSSION

Endoscopic sinus surgery could reduce the postoperative recurrence and pain of patients, and showed high curative effects and safety in the treatment of children with chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps.

The relative proportion of comorbidities among rhinitis and rhinosinusitis patients and their impact on visit burden

Background

The aim was to evaluate the relative proportion of Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD) and other comorbidities, and their impact on the burden of outpatient visits due to allergic rhinitis (AR), non‐allergic rhinitis (NAR), acute rhinosinusitis (ARS), and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and without (CRSsNP).

Methods

We used hospital registry data of a random sample of 5080 rhinitis/rhinosinusitis patients diagnosed during 2005–2019. International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD10) diagnoses, visits, and other factors were collected from electronic health records by using information extraction and data processing methods. Cox's proportional hazards model was used for modeling the time to the next outpatient visit.

Results

The mean (±standard deviation) age of the population was 33.6 (±20.7) years and 56.1% were female. The relative proportion of AR, NAR, ARS, CRSsNP and CRSwNP, were 33.5%, 27.5%, 27.2%, 20.7%, and 10.9%, respectively. The most common other comorbidities were asthma (44.4%), other chronic respiratory diseases (38.5%), musculoskeletal diseases (38.4%), and cardiovascular diseases (35.7%). Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug exacerbated respiratory disease existed in 3.9% of all patients, and 17.7% of the CRSwNP group. The relative proportion of subjects having 1, 2, 3 and ≥ 4 other diseases were 18.0%, 17.6%, 17.0%, 37.0%, respectively. All diseases except AR, ARS, and mouth breathing, were associated with a high frequency of outpatient visits.

Conclusions

Our results revealed a high relative proportion of NERD and other comorbidities, which affect the burden of outpatient visits and hence confirm the socioeconomic impact of upper airway diseases.

Using machine learning for the personalised prediction of revision endoscopic sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

Revision endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is often considered for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) if maximal conservative treatment and baseline ESS prove insufficient. Emerging research outlines the risk factors of revision ESS. However, accurately predicting revision ESS at the individual level remains uncertain. This study aims to examine the prediction accuracy of revision ESS and to identify the effects of risk factors at the individual level.

METHODS

We collected demographic and clinical variables from the electronic health records of 767 surgical CRS patients ≥16 years of age. Revision ESS was performed on 111 (14.5%) patients. The prediction accuracy of revision ESS was examined by training and validating different machine learning models, while the effects of variables were analysed using the Shapley values and partial dependence plots.

RESULTS

The logistic regression, gradient boosting and random forest classifiers performed similarly in predicting revision ESS. Area under the receiving operating characteristic curve (AUROC) values were 0.744, 0.741 and 0.730, respectively, using data collected from the baseline visit until six months after baseline ESS. The length of time during which data were collected improved the prediction performance. For data collection times of 0, 3, 6 and 12 months after baseline ESS, AUROC values for the logistic regression were 0.682, 0.715, 0.744 and 0.784, respectively. The number of visits before or after baseline ESS, the number of days from the baseline visit to the baseline ESS, patient age, CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), asthma, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug exacerbated respiratory disease and immunodeficiency or suspicion of it all associated with revision ESS. Patient age and number of visits before baseline ESS carried non-linear effects for predictions.

CONCLUSIONS

Intelligent data analysis identified important predictors of revision ESS at the individual level, such as the frequency of clinical visits, patient age, Type 2 high diseases and immunodeficiency or a suspicion of it.

Investigating the secondary care system burden of CRSwNP in sinus surgery patients with clinically relevant comorbidities using the HES database

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a chronic condition that can adversely affect quality of life for patients. There is no cure for CRSwNP, and patients may require intermittent systemic corticosteroids (SCS) and surgery in addition to intranasal treatment throughout their lifetime. This places a significant burden on the NHS which can be compounded by comorbid conditions such as asthma or NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD). Patients with comorbidities are likely to experience higher rates of surgery and more secondary care visits. The aim of this study was to evaluate revision rates and the associated burden for patients with CRSwNP undergoing surgery and compare this to sub-cohorts of patients with comorbidities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study has utilised the Hospital Episodes Statistics (HES) database across a ten-year time period (April 2010 to March 2020) to investigate the NHS resource use attributable to CRSwNP for all patients with the condition who have undergone sinus surgery, and to examine the burden of clinically relevant sub-groups.

RESULTS

Our results showed that 101,054 patients underwent at least one sinus surgery in relation to their nasal polyps, with Kaplan Meier survival analysis estimating that the 10-year probability of revision is between 71-90% for comorbid patients, and 51% for non-comorbid patients. Patients with a relevant comorbid condition in addition to their CRSwNP were up to 4.7 times more likely to undergo at least one revision surgery during the ten-year analytical time window when compared to patients without a comorbidity. Further to this, comorbid patients had a higher tariff associated with their CRSwNP care across the analytical time window and were therefore likely to be more costly to the healthcare system.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is a high burden attached to CRSwNP-related sinus surgery and that comorbidities are a key driver of NHS resource use.

Imaging After Sinonasal Surgery

Posttreatment imaging evaluation of sinuses encompasses a wide gamut of procedures, ranging from endoscopic procedures for sinonasal inflammatory diseases to markedly radical surgeries for malignant neoplasms (with or without reconstructions), as well as providing access for surgeries involving the anterior and central skull base. Advances in both techniques and devices have expanded the use of endoscopic approaches in managing both benign and malignant lesions, in addition to being the primary surgical method for treating all medically refractive sinonasal inflammatory disorders. Familiarity with the complex anatomy in the sinonasal region and knowledge of the various procedures is indispensable in interpreting these imaging studies.

Efficacy of triamcinolone acetonide-impregnated Gelfoam nasal pack in management of chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps following endoscopic sinus surgery: a perfectly matched, placebo-controlled trial study

PURPOSE

This perfectly matched, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial study was performed to investigate the efficacy of triamcinolone acetonide (TAA)-impregnated Gelfoam nasal pack in management of different endotypes of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

METHODS

One hundred and four patients with bilateral CRSwNP undergoing ESS were selected and randomized to receive TAA-soaked nasal packing in one nostril and saline-impregnated dressing contra-laterally. Validated Perioperative Sinus Endoscopy (POSE) scoring system was used to assess the participants' condition at postoperative months 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18.

RESULTS

The treatment side of eosinophilic CRSwNP (EosCRSwNP) group had significantly better endoscopic scores than the contralateral control side in all follow-up visits (P < 0.05 for all comparisons) except for the first postoperative month. No significant difference was detected between the TAA- and saline-treated nostrils in the non-eosinophilic CRSwNP (nonEosCRSwNP) subgroup during the follow-up period. Intergroup comparisons revealed a borderline better POSE score for the treatment side of the EosCRSwNP group compared with the treatment nostril of the nonEosCRSwNP group at months 12 (P = 0.041) and 18 (P = 0.044). At the end of the study period, the treatment side of the EosCRSwNP group demonstrated better clinical response than the saline-treated side in terms of the total POSE scores (P = 0.019), middle turbinate synechia (P = 0.008), middle meatal narrowing (P = 0.010), ethmoid polypoid changes (P = 0.039), ethmoid polyposis (P = 0.027), ethmoid cavity secretions (P = 0.042), and sphenoid severity (P = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

TAA-soaked Gelfoam dressing following bilateral ESS was found to be an effective method for treating CRSwNP particularly for the eosinophilic endotype of the disease.

Outcome of Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy in Adults With Rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of immunoglobulin (IG) replacement therapy in adults with rhinosinusitis and primary humoral immunodeficiency disorders (PID).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of adult (18 years and older) patients who were diagnosed with PID and had the diagnosis of recurrent acute rhinosinusitis (RARS) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and who are on IG replacement therapy. Demographic data, associated conditions, and duration of treatment were reviewed. Number of yearly sinus infections, sinus CT Lund-Mackay (LM) score, and need for functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) were reviewed before and after starting IG therapy.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were included. Average age was 52 years (18-79 years). About 74% were female. Thirty patients (51.7%) had common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), 18 (31.1%) had hypogammaglobulinemia, and 10 (17.2%) had specific antibody deficiency (SAD). About 79% of patients had allergic rhinitis and 74% had asthma. Pretreatment LM score was 7.6 (±2.2, range of 0-24) compared to posttreatment score of 3.5 (±1.3, range of 0-16) (P = .01). Eleven patients (19%) had FESS pretreatment compared to only two patients (3.4%) requiring ESS after starting treatment on IG therapy (P = .004). Prior to starting IG therapy, five patients (8.6%) had more than 10 sinus infections per year, 33 patients (56.9%) had 5 to 10 infections, and 20 patients (34.5%) had 1 to 5 infections per year. After starting on IG, 34 patients (58.6%) had no infections reported anymore (P < .001), and 24 patients (41.4%) had only 1 to 5 infections reported per year CONCLUSION: IG therapy is a promising treatment option for recurrent rhinosinusitis in patients with PID.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

International consensus statement on allergy and rhinology: rhinosinusitis 2021

I.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BACKGROUND: The 5 years since the publication of the first International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Rhinosinusitis (ICAR-RS) has witnessed foundational progress in our understanding and treatment of rhinologic disease. These advances are reflected within the more than 40 new topics covered within the ICAR-RS-2021 as well as updates to the original 140 topics. This executive summary consolidates the evidence-based findings of the document.

METHODS

ICAR-RS presents over 180 topics in the forms of evidence-based reviews with recommendations (EBRRs), evidence-based reviews, and literature reviews. The highest grade structured recommendations of the EBRR sections are summarized in this executive summary.

RESULTS

ICAR-RS-2021 covers 22 topics regarding the medical management of RS, which are grade A/B and are presented in the executive summary. Additionally, 4 topics regarding the surgical management of RS are grade A/B and are presented in the executive summary. Finally, a comprehensive evidence-based management algorithm is provided.

CONCLUSION

This ICAR-RS-2021 executive summary provides a compilation of the evidence-based recommendations for medical and surgical treatment of the most common forms of RS.

Asthma increases long-term revision rates of endoscopic sinus surgery in chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with asthma (CRS-A) has a significant impact on patient morbidity and quality of life. Nevertheless, little is known about the natural history of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in this cohort. The objective of this study was to evaluate revision rates of ESS in CRS-A and identify risk factors associated with increased likelihood for revision surgery compared to those with CRS without asthma (CRS-alone).

METHODS

The Utah Population Database was queried for patients age >18 years with CRS who underwent at least 1 ESS between 1996 and 2018. Demographic information and history of ESS were collected and compared between CRS-A and CRS-alone using chi-square tests for categorical variables and t tests for continuous variables. Risk factors for revision surgery were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

A total of 33,090 patients (7693 CRS-A and 25,397 CRS-alone) were included in the final analysis. Mean follow up was 9.8 years in CRS-A and 9.1 years in CRS-alone (p < 0.001). The revision rate among patients with CRS-A (21.5%) was twice that of CRS-alone (10.8%) (p < 0.001). Among patients with CRS, a history of allergy (p < 0.001), asthma (p < 0.001), and nasal polyposis (p < 0.001) was independently associated with increased risk of revision ESS. Patients with CRS-A and nasal polyposis were 6 times more likely to require revision surgery than those with CRS-alone (p < 0.010).

CONCLUSION

The rate of revision ESS in CRS-A was twice that of CRS-alone; patients with CRS-A and nasal polyposis were 6 times more likely to require revision than those with CRS-alone. ©2021 ARSAAOA, LLC.

Systematic literature review of humanistic and economic burdens of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis

OBJECTIVES

We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) of randomized controlled trials and real-world evidence (RWE) studies to determine the humanistic (e.g. health-related/disease-specific quality of life [QOL]) and economic (e.g. direct and indirect costs) burdens of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP).

METHODS

The SLR adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Embase, MEDLINE and Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews databases were searched using OVID. Relevant studies involving adult patients with CRSwNP published between 1 January 2008 and 16 February 2019 were included, with relevant conference abstracts from 1 January 2017, onward.

RESULTS

Sino-Nasal Outcomes Test (SNOT)-22 was the most frequently used disease-specific health-related QOL/patient-reported outcomes instrument for patients with CRSwNP. Baseline SNOT-22 scores ranged from 25 to 73 for surgical candidates and from 14 to 56 for medically managed patients with CRSwNP. Mean baseline EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) index for patients with CRSwNP ranged from 0.81 to 0.86, and mean baseline Short Form-6 Dimensions (SF-6D) ranged from 0.67 to 0.75. Three months (EQ-5D) and 5 years (SF-6D) post-endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), rates increased from 0.81 to 0.89 and from 0.69 to 0.80, respectively. One year post-diagnosis, patients with CRSwNP had significantly more systemic prescriptions, underwent significantly more medical procedures, demonstrated greater health care resource utilization and had significantly greater mean health care costs compared with matched controls (all p < .001). Overall, for patients with initial ESS, CRSwNP was associated with higher disease-related expenditures compared with CRS without nasal polyposis (NP), even for patients who did not undergo revision surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This SLR identified substantial humanistic burden among surgery candidates. RWE shows that surgeries were used to treat relatively more severe CRSwNP patients as recommended by guidelines. Patient QOL is improved significantly after surgery; however, there is a lack of evidence on patients with revision surgery. Surgery is also associated with higher costs, and the presence of NP was a predictor of revision surgery. Patients with CRSwNP demonstrate greater health care resource utilization and costs compared to those with CRS without NP. Costs associated with different severity of CRSwNP and revision surgery need to be assessed further.

Inflammatory features and predictors for postsurgical outcomes in patients with nasal polyps stratified by local and systemic eosinophilia

BACKGROUND

In this study we aimed to identify inflammatory patterns and predictors associated with clinical outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients with different blood and tissue eosinophilia.

METHODS

A total of 535 CRSwNP patients were enrolled, and the expression of 35 biomarkers, together with eosinophil and neutrophil counts in nasal polyps, were analyzed in a subset of 249 patients. Patients were stratified on the basis of blood (≥0.5 × 10⁹ /L) and tissue (>10%) eosinophilia. Logistic regression models were applied to identify predictors of uncontrolled disease at least 1 year after surgery. Uncontrolled disease was defined according to the European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps 2020.

RESULTS

Among 535 patients, 38.5% showed inconsistent blood and tissue eosinophilia. In 249 CRSwNP patients, subjects with concomitant blood and tissue eosinophilia (group 1) showed marked mucosal type 2 inflammation, characterized by high levels of interleukin (IL)-5, IL-13, and eotaxin-1, whereas subjects with normal blood and tissue eosinophil levels (group 4) demonstrated significant local neutrophilic inflammation with high expression of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and subjects with selective tissue eosinophilia (group 2) showed intermediate and mixed eosinophilic and neutrophilic inflammation. Subjects with isolated blood eosinophilia (group 3) showed low expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and IL-10. Asthma, prior sinus surgery, and blood eosinophilia were the top 3 predictors for postsurgical uncontrolled disease. For subgroup analysis, sex in group 1, asthma in group 2, tissue IL-10 and immunoglobulin E in group 3, and prior sinus surgery in group 4 were the strongest predictors of uncontrolled disease, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Different blood and tissue eosinophilia revealed distinct tissue inflammatory patterns in CRSwNP patients.

Guidance for contemporary use of biologics in management of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: discussion from a National Institutes of Health-sponsored workshop

BACKGROUND

Biologic medications are emerging as options for treating chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Several questions remain regarding patient selection, indications, clinical efficacy, and cost effectiveness.

METHODS

In November 2019, a group of physicians and scientists gathered to consider strategies for future studies regarding biologics. During the discussion, gaps in knowledge highlighted a need for a consensus on the present day use of biologics in polyp patients.

RESULTS

The goal of this guideline is to propose recommendations for the current use of biologics in CRSwNP as new evidence continues to emerge and inform practice.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that physicians evaluate patients on an individual basis and closely monitor for improvement due to the high cost and unknown long-term effects of biologics.

The role of surgery in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides affecting the nose and sinuses: A systematic review

Background:

The ear, nose and throat region has been reported to be one of the commonest sites involved in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)–associated vasculitis diseases and often precedes the diagnosis of ANCA–associated vasculitis by many months. Although treatment for ANCA–associated vasculitis primarily requires systemic immunosuppressive therapy, there are specific indications for sinonasal surgery during the course of the disease process. The three major roles for surgery in sinonasal vasculitis are to aid diagnosis through biopsy, enable symptom relief and nasal reconstructive surgery consideration when in remission.

Purpose:

The aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the surgical procedures which can be performed in patients with ANCA–associated vasculitis presenting with sinonasal involvement.

Materials and methods:

A systematic literature search was performed for scientific articles on MEDLINE (PubMed Advanced MEDLINE Search) and EMBASE. The search included all articles up to April 2020.

Conclusion:

Surgical intervention during the active phase of ANCA–associated vasculitis disease can improve the patient’s symptoms and enable histological diagnosis. The surgical decision to manage the nose requires a multidisciplinary approach involving the vasculitis specialist and the ear, nose and throat surgeon. Nasal reconstruction can be performed to restore form and function but only when the disease is in remission so as to maximise success and minimise complications.

The use of balloon dilation in revision sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have demonstrated a dramatic increase in the use of balloon sinus dilation (BSD) in the United States. However, the use of BSD specifically in revision sinus surgery has not been investigated. This study addresses the question of how BSD is utilized as a tool in revision sinus surgery.

METHODS

Data from MarketScan (Truven Health) over a 5-year period (2012-2016) were analyzed. Patients who underwent a sinus procedure with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were included.

RESULTS

A total of 62,304 patients met inclusion criteria; 6847 (10.99%) underwent revision. Age >55 years, the South geographical region, and medical comorbidities increased the odds of revision on multivariate analysis. For patients undergoing revision, BSD was used 11%, 21%, and 13% of the time for revisions of the maxillary, frontal, and sphenoid sinuses, respectively. For a sinus that underwent revision after an initial BSD, a repeat BSD was done close to 40% of the time.

CONCLUSION

BSD is used frequently in the revision setting, especially for the frontal sinus and for patients who had already undergone an initial BSD. Our findings highlight the prevalent role of BSD in revision surgery and the need to evaluate such practices.

Cost Utility Analysis of Dupilumab Versus Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps

OBJECTIVE

Both endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and biologic therapies have shown effectiveness for medically-refractory chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) without severe asthma. The objective was to evaluate cost-effectiveness of dupilumab versus ESS for patients with CRSwNP.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort-style Markov decision-tree economic model with a 36-year time horizon.

METHODS

A cohort of 197 CRSwNP patients who underwent ESS were compared with a matched cohort of 293 CRSwNP patients from the SINUS-24 and SINUS-52 Phase 3 studies who underwent treatment with dupilumab 300 mg every 2 weeks. Utility scores were calculated from the SNOT-22 instrument in both cohorts. Decision-tree analysis and a 10-state Markov model utilized published event probabilities and primary data to calculate long-term costs and utility. The primary outcome measure was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY), which is expressed as an Incremental Cost Effectiveness Ratio. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The ESS strategy cost $50,436.99 and produced 9.80 QALYs. The dupilumab treatment strategy cost $536,420.22 and produced 8.95 QALYs. Because dupilumab treatment was more costly and less effective than the ESS strategy, it is dominated by ESS in the base case. One-way sensitivity analyses showed ESS to be cost-effective versus dupilumab regardless of the frequency of revision surgery and at any yearly cost of dupilumab above $855.

CONCLUSIONS

The ESS treatment strategy is more cost effective than dupilumab for upfront treatment of CRSwNP. More studies are needed to isolate potential phenotypes or endotypes that will benefit most from dupilumab in a cost-effective manner.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2C Laryngoscope, 131:E26-E33, 2021.

Histopathological characteristics of surgical tissue from primary vs recurrent chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis patients

OBJECTIVE

The histopathological characteristics of primary vs recurrent nasal polyps in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) have not been studied comprehensively. Identification of these features may be helpful for prognostication, postoperative management, and consideration of novel eosinophil-targeting biologic therapy. This study investigates the histopathological differences in primary vs recurrent CRSwNP tissue.

METHODS

Patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery for CRSwNP were included if all 13 histopathological and mucin characteristics on a standardized report were available. Histopathology parameters were compared in surgical tissue and mucin from primary vs recurrent CRSwNP.

RESULTS

Complete structured histopathology reports were available for 96 patients (39 primary polyps and 57 recurrent polyps). Compared to primary polyp tissue, recurrent CRSwNP mucin was significantly more likely to feature eosinophil aggregates (57.9% vs 35.9%; P = .047). Tissue eosinophilia (using a threshold >10 per high power field [HPF]) was not significantly different in primary and recurrent CRSwNP tissue. Other histopathologic parameters and clinical characteristics were similar.

CONCLUSION

Eosinophil aggregates on histopathology are significantly more likely to be present in recurrent CRSwNP. In the limited series, tissue eosinophilia (>10 per HPF) was not significantly different in primary and recurrent CRSwNP. Therefore, in addition to the study of tissue eosinophilia levels, Rhinologic surgeons should also direct attention to CRSwNP mucin. Mucin eosinophilic aggregates are an independent marker of severe inflammation that is associated more likely with recurrent vs primary polyposis. Further study of this marker may help determine its role of choice of postoperative medical therapies, including anti-eosinophilic biologics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Heterogeneity of NSAID-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease: has the time come for subphenotyping?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

NSAID-Exacerbated Disease (N-ERD) is a chronic eosinophilic inflammatory disorder of the respiratory tract occurring in patients with asthma and/or rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, whose symptoms are exacerbated by NSAIDs. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and management of N-ERD, and to emphasize heterogeneity of this syndrome.

RECENT FINDINGS

Growing evidence indicates that N-ERD, which has been considered a separate asthma phenotype, is heterogenous, and can be divided in several subphenotypes varying in clinical characteristics. Pathophysiology of N-ERD is complex and extends beyond abnormalities in the arachidonic acid metabolism. Heterogeneity of pathophysiological mechanisms underlying development of airway inflammation seems to be associated with variability in response to both anti-inflammatory and disease-specific treatments (e.g., with aspirin after desensitization).

SUMMARY

Progress in understanding of the pathophysiology of N-ERD leads to discovery and validation of new biomarkers facilitating diagnosis and predicting the response to treatment of the chronic inflammation underlying upper (CRSwNP) and lower airway (asthma) symptoms. Better characterization of the immunophysiopathological heterogeneity of N-ERD (identification of endotypes) may allow more personalized, endotype-driven approach to treatment in the future.

Aspirin desensitization therapy in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) represents an aggressive form of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis that is notoriously challenging to treat. There is evidence to suggest desensitization to aspirin may improve symptomatology and disease control in these patients. The goal of our study was to critically appraise the literature on this topic and assess the effect of desensitization on sinonasal symptomatology.

METHODS

We searched EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library for relevant literature. Studies were included if they were observational studies or randomized, controlled trials, had n > 1, and were published in English or French. Studies were excluded if they were systematic reviews. We assessed study for quality and presence of common sources of bias.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. In general, polyp size, polyp recurrence, nasal symptom scores, sense of smell, number of acute rhinosinusitis episodes, and systemic steroid use improved when patients were desensitized. The vast majority of studies recommend desensitization.

CONCLUSION

There is mounting evidence that aspirin desensitization is a valuable adjunct to treat sinonasal symptoms in the treatment of patients who have AERD.

Revision surgery rates in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: meta-analysis of risk factors

BACKGROUND

Wide variations in revision endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) rates for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) have been reported. It is important to understand expected revision rates and factors that impact the need for revision.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed on studies that reported revision surgery data for CRSwNP patients.

RESULTS

Forty-five studies with 34,220 subjects were meta-analyzed, with an overall revision rate of 18.6% (95% confidence interval, 14.1%-23.6%). Studies with extractable follow-up data reported a mean revision rate of 16.2% over a weighted mean follow-up of 89.6 months. Factors associated with increased revision rates included allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (28.7%), aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (27.2%), asthma (22.6%), prior polypectomy (26.0%), and publication prior to 2008 (22.7%) (p < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Although polyps can recur after ESS, reported long-term ESS revision rates are approximately 14% to 24%. Identifying risk factors for revision surgery can help manage patient expectations and determine optimal personalized treatments.

A structured histopathology-based analysis of surgical outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyps

Objectives

Structured histopathology reporting has been recently described for detailing immunopathological characteristics of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), and can be utilized for subtyping CRS and personalizing management. This study scrutinized elements of structured histopathology to identify characteristics that prognosticate outcomes following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for CRS patients with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and without nasal polyps (CRSsNP).

Methods

Outcomes following ESS were measured using the patient‐reported 22‐item sinonasal outcome test (SNOT‐22). Changes in total SNOT‐22 scores at 6 and 12 months postoperatively were analyzed. Thirteen parameters reported in structured histopathology of sinus surgical tissue were studied for association with outcomes postsurgery. The overall cohort of all CRS patients was studied, along with subgroup analyses of CRSwNP and CRSsNP patients.

Results

In the entire CRS cohort (n = 171), eosinophil count >10 per high power field (HPF) was associated with greater improvement in SNOT‐22 scores at 6 months post‐ESS (P = .039). At 12 months follow‐up, no histopathological characteristic was associated with change in total SNOT‐22 score. In the CRSwNP (n = 66) subgroup, the presence of fibrosis (P = .006) and eosinophil count ≤10 per HPF (P = .025) were associated with less favorable changes in SNOT‐22 scores at 12 months follow‐up. Fibrosis remained statistically significant in multivariable analysis (P = .007).

Conclusions

At 6 months post‐ESS, tissue eosinophilia is associated with significantly higher improvement in SNOT‐22 scores, but this difference is diluted by 12 months. Fibrosis was associated with less favorable outcomes in SNOT‐22 scores for CRSwNP patients at 12 months and may be a prognosticator for poorer long‐term outcomes.

Level of Evidence

4

Contribution of Epithelial Cell Dysfunction to the Pathogenesis of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps

Background

In the past, the airway epithelium was thought to be primarily an inert physical barrier. We now know that the upper airway epithelium plays a critical role in both innate and adaptive immunity, and that epithelial dysfunction is strongly associated with inflammatory airway disease. The pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis is poorly understood, but growing evidence supports a key role for the airway epithelium in the pathophysiology of the disease.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to explore our current understanding of how dysfunction in human sinonasal epithelial cells (HSNECs) contributes to the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and to examine how current and developing therapies affect epithelial cell functions.

Methods

A literature review of papers published in English pertaining to epithelial cell dysfunction in patients with CRSwNP was performed using the PubMed database. The search utilized combinations of the following key words: sinusitis, polyps, epithelium, pathophysiology, barrier function, dendritic cells, eosinophils, T cells, complement, mucociliary clearance, vitamin D, cytokines, chemokines, taste receptors, steroids, saline, and therapy.

Results

HSNEC mucociliary clearance, barrier function, secretion of cytokines, influence on dendritic cells, influence on T-cells, regulation of eosinophils, vitamin D metabolism, complement production, and taste receptor function are altered in patients with CRSwNP and contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease. Current therapies utilized to manage CRSwNP counteract the effects of HSNEC dysfunction and relieve key symptoms of the disease.

Conclusion

HSNECs are key players in both innate and adaptive immunity, and altered epithelial functions are closely intertwined with the pathogenesis of CRSwNP. Our review supports further investigation of altered HSNEC function in patients with CRSwNP and supports development of novel epithelial-targeted therapies for its management.

Socioeconomic status impacts postoperative productivity loss and health utility changes in refractory chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Social determinants of health can have a substantial impact on treatment outcomes. Prior study has shown that socioeconomic status influences the likelihood of improvement in quality-of-life (QOL) following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). However, the impact of socioeconomic factors on changes in productivity loss and health utility after ESS remains unknown.

METHODS

Adult patients (≥18 years of age) with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) who underwent ESS were prospectively enrolled into a multi-institutional cohort study. Productivity losses were calculated using the human capital approach and monetized using U.S. government-estimated wage rates. Health utility values (HUVs) were derived from the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form-12 survey using University of Sheffield algorithms. Independent socioeconomic factors of interest included: age, gender, ethnicity, insurance status, educational attainment, and household income categorized via the Thompson-Hickey model.

RESULTS

A total of 229 patients met inclusion criteria, and 163 (71%) provided postoperative follow-up. All subjects reported significant, within-subject improvement in both mean monetized productivity loss (p < 0.001) and HUV postoperatively (p < 0.001). Using paired sample statistics, patients with lowest income (≤$25,000/year) and with Medicare insurance did not report significant improvement in productivity loss (p ≥ 0.112) or HUV (p ≥ 0.081), although sample size limitations may have contributed to this finding. Patients in higher income tiers ($25,001 to $100,000/year and $100,001+/year) and those with employer-provided/private health insurance reported significant postoperative improvements in productivity loss and HUV (all p ≤ 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Socioeconomic factors, including income and insurance provision, may impact improvements in productivity loss and HUV following ESS. Further research to validate these findings, ascertain mechanisms behind these results, and improve these outcomes is warranted.

The Role of Staphylococcus aureus in Patients with Chronic Sinusitis and Nasal Polyposis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is correlated with the development of persistent severe inflammatory disease of the upper airway including chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). The presence of S. aureus is associated with atopic disease including allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis and is associated with poor outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several different strains of S. aureus generate different toxins and gene products that can account for organism pathogenicity. S. aureus bacteria and its antigens shape the bacterial and fungal microbiome and the mucosal niche which generates host responses that can account for inflammation. The multiple disease phenotypes and molecular endotypes seen in CRSwNP can be characterized by T-helper cell environment within the inflammatory milieu, the presence of epithelial barrier dysfunction, aberrant eicosanoid metabolism, poor wound healing, and dysfunctional host-bacteria interactions which lead to recalcitrant disease and worse surgical outcomes. Understanding the pathomechanisms that S. aureus utilizes to promote nasal polyp formation, prolonged tissue inflammation, and bacterial dysbiosis are essential in our efforts to identify new therapeutic approaches to resolve this chronic inflammatory process.

Long-term revision rates for endoscopic sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

Reported revision rates for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) vary significantly. Several investigations examining revision rates for ESS have been limited by duration of follow-up, academic centers, or small surgeon cohorts. The objective of this study was to define the long-term revision rates for ESS and to determine those unique patient factors that increase the risk of revision ESS.

METHODS

The Utah Population Database was queried for Current Procedural Terminology codes for ESS from 1996 to 2016. Patient demographics and comorbid diagnoses were collected. Revision rates and risk factors for surgery were determined by Cox proportional hazard modeling.

RESULTS

A total of 29,934 patients were identified, with a mean length of follow-up of 9.7 years. The long-term revision rate was found to be 15.9%. The mean time between surgeries decreased with higher number of revision surgeries. The time between the first and second surgery was 4.39 years and the time between the fourth and fifth surgery decreased to 2.18 years. Female gender, older age at first surgery, nasal polyps, comorbid asthma, allergy, and a family history of CRS all increased the risk of requiring revision surgery (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The long-term revision rate for ESS exceeds 15% and the time between revision surgeries decreased with each additional surgery being performed. Unique patient factors increased the risk of requiring revision ESS. Understanding patients' risk for revision surgery may help physicians select and counsel patients with CRS undergoing ESS.

Chronic Rhinosinusitis-Could Phenotyping or Endotyping Aid Therapy?

OBJECTIVES

We reviewed the phenotyping and endotyping of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and treatment options.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Google, Google Scholar, and the Proquest Central Database of the Kırıkkale University Library.

RESULTS

Phenotypes are observable properties of an organism produced by the environment acting upon the genotype, that is, patients with a particular disorder are subgrouped according to common characteristics. Currently, CRS is usually phenotyped as being with (CRSwNP) or without (CRSsNP) nasal polyps. However, this is not immutable as some individuals progress from nonpolyp to polypoid CRS over time. Phenotypes of CRS are also based on inflammatory patterns, generally CRSwNP is eosinophilic, CRSsNP neutrophilic; but there is a spectrum, rather than a clear-cut division into 2 types. An endotype is a subtype of a condition defined by a distinct functional or pathobiological mechanism. Endotypes of CRS can be (1) nontype Th2, (2) moderate type Th2, and (3) severe type Th2 immune reactions, based on cytokines and mediators such as IL4, 5, 13. CRS endotyping can also include a (1) type 2 cytokine-based approach, (2) eosinophil-mediated approach, (3) immunoglobulin E-based approach, and (4) cysteinyl leukotriene-based approach. Subdivisions of CRSwNP can be made into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-exacerbated respiratory disease, allergic fungal sinusitis, and eosinophil pauci-granulomatous arteritis by testing. General treatment for all CRS is nasal douching. The place of surgery needs careful reconsideration. Endotype-directed therapies include glucocorticosteroids, antibiotics, aspirin, antifungals, anticytokines, and immunoglobulin replacement. The recognition of united airways and the co-occurrence of CRSwNPs and severe asthma should lead to common endotyping of both upper and lower airways in order to better direct therapy.

CONCLUSION

Endotyping can allow for the identification of groups of patients with CRS with a high likelihood of successful treatment, such as patients with a moderate type 2 immune reaction or those with acquired immune deficiency.