Chronic rhinosinusitis as a multifactorial inflammatory disorder

Chitosan-based crosslinking for controlled topical drug release in rhinosinusitis

KEY POINTS

Chitosan is a promising drug delivery vector for therapeutics owing to its biocompatibility. Once crosslinked with chitosan, prolonged drug release was noted regardless of hydrophilicity. Hydrophilic drugs may require different strategies to obtain a sustained release profile.

Comparison of treatment efficacy of omega-3 fish oil and montelukast in ovalbumin-protease-induced allergic rhinitis model in rats

OBJECTIVES

Montelukast is a well-known leukotriene receptor antagonist commonly used in treating allergic rhinitis and asthma. Omega-3 fatty acid is also known as an antiallergic and immunomodulator molecule. This study aimed to elucidate the efficacy of systemic montelukast and omega-3 fatty acid treatment in allergic rhinitis models in Wistar Hannover rats.

METHODS

This research was conducted on 28 healthy Wistar Hannover rats weighing 250-350 g. After establishing the allergic rhinitis model, nasal symptoms were observed and scored, and the nasal mucosa of all rats was investigated histologically. Light microscopy was utilized to evaluate the degree of ciliary loss, goblet cell hyperplasia, vascular congestion, vascular proliferation, inflammatory cell infiltration, eosinophil infiltration, and hypertrophy in chondrocytes.

RESULTS

As a result of the analysis of the data obtained from the study, it was determined that typical allergic rhinitis symptoms such as nasal scratching and sneezing were significantly reduced in the rats in the montelukast and omega-3 treated group, and these symptoms did not increase after repeated intranasal OVA-protease applications. Histological examinations after fish oil treatment did not reveal typical inflammatory changes in allergic rhinitis. None of the rats in the montelukast and omega-3 groups had any increase in goblet cells, whereas 14.3% of the rats in the control group and 28.6% of the rats in the allergic rhinitis group had mild increase. Last but not least, 71.4% of rats in the allergic rhinitis group had a moderate increase. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Regarding the outcomes of this research, it was observed that w-3 fatty acids had antiallergic effects, both histopathological and clinical, in the allergic rhinitis model. We believe that further randomized controlled trials incorporating larger cohorts are warranted to verify the use of omega-3 fatty acids in treating allergic rhinitis. The level of evidence of this article is Level 2.

Incidence Rates and Risk Ratios of Normal Tension Glaucoma in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Population-Based Longitudinal Follow-Up Study

Several studies have investigated the association between chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and ophthalmological complications. However, it remains uncertain whether CRS is independently associated with the development of normal tension glaucoma (NTG). Therefore, this retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the prospective association between CRS and the increased incidence and risk of NTG using a representative population-based dataset. The selection of both the CRS and comparison groups was meticulously conducted through the propensity scoring method. The incidence and risk ratios of NTG were measured using person-years at risk and a weighted Cox proportional hazards model. We enrolled 30,284 individuals without CRS (comparison group) and 15,142 individuals with CRS. The NTG incidence rates were 1.19 and 0.81 in the CRS and comparison groups, respectively. The CRS group showed a significantly increased risk of subsequent development for NTG (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence interval = 1.16-1.72), regardless of the CRS subtype. Additionally, the risk of developing NTG was relatively higher in the first 2 years after CRS diagnosis. Moreover, a subgroup analysis revealed a higher risk of NTG in elderly female individuals with CRS. The present findings underscore the importance of monitoring and managing NTG risk in individuals with CRS, especially in elderly female patients.

Comprehensive analysis of mitophagy-related genes in diagnosis and heterogeneous endothelial cells in chronic rhinosinusitis: based on bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a complex inflammatory disorder affecting the nasal and paranasal sinuses. Mitophagy, the process of selective mitochondrial degradation via autophagy, is crucial for maintaining cellular balance. However, the role of mitophagy in CRS is not well-studied. This research aims to examine the role of mitophagy-related genes (MRGs) in CRS, with a particular focus on the heterogeneity of endothelial cells (ECs). Methods: We employed both bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data to investigate the role of MRGs in CRS. We compiled a combined database of 92 CRS samples and 35 healthy control samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and we explored the differential expression of MRGs between them. A logistic regression model was built based on seven key genes identified through Random Forests and Support Vector Machines - Recursive Feature Elimination (SVM-RFE). Consensus cluster analysis was used to categorize CRS patients based on MRG expression patterns and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to find modules of highly correlated genes of the different clusters. Single-cell RNA sequencing data was utilized to analyze MRGs and EC heterogeneity in CRS. Results: Seven hub genes-SQSTM1, SRC, UBA52, MFN2, UBC, RPS27A, and ATG12-showed differential expression between two groups. A diagnostic model based on hub genes showed excellent prognostic accuracy. A strong positive correlation was found between the seven hub MRGs and resting dendritic cells, while a significant negative correlation was observed with mast cells and CD8+ T cells. CRS could be divided into two subclusters based on MRG expression patterns. WGCNA analysis identified modules of highly correlated genes of these two different subclusters. At the single-cell level, two types of venous ECs with different MRG scores were identified, suggesting their varying roles in CRS pathogenesis, especially in the non-eosinophilic CRS subtype. Conclusion: Our comprehensive study of CRS reveals the significant role of MRGs and underscores the heterogeneity of ECs. We highlighted the importance of Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) and TGFb pathways in mediating the effects of mitophagy, particularly the MIF. Overall, our findings enhance the understanding of mitophagy in CRS, providing a foundation for future research and potential therapeutic developments.

Developing Nanosuspension Loaded with Azelastine for Potential Nasal Drug Delivery: Determination of Proinflammatory Interleukin IL-4 mRNA Expression and Industrial Scale-Up Strategy

In order to increase bioavailability and intranasal absorbance, the current work set out to create azelastine nasal spray based on nanosuspension. Chondroitin was utilized as a polymer to prepare azelastine nanosuspension through the precipitation procedure. A size of 500 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.276 with a negative potential (-20 mV) were achieved. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis including differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, in vitro release, and diffusion studies were used to characterize the optimized nanosuspension. MTT assay was used to assess the viability of the cells, and hemolysis assay was used to assess the blood compatibility. Using RNA extraction and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4, which is most closely related to cytokines in allergic rhinitis, were measured in mouse lungs. The drug dissolution and diffusion study indicated 2.0-fold increase compared to pure reference sample. Therefore, the azelastine nanosuspension could be suggested as a practical and simple nanosystem for intranasal delivery with improved permeability and bioavailability. The outcome obtained in this study indicated that azelastine nanosuspension has great potential to treat allergic rhinitis as intranasal treatment.

The Value of Multiple Medication Trials Prior to Balloon Sinuplasty in the Management of Chronic Sinonasal Disease

Introduction  In patients with chronic rhinosinusitis, conservative interventions with extended medical trials are often attempted prior to procedural treatment. Balloon sinuplasty (BSP) is an established procedure for symptomatic relief from chronic rhinosinusitis. However, data suggesting the suboptimal efficacy of prolonged medication management trials, prior to BSP, is lacking. Objectives  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of prolonged medication management trials, prior to BSP, for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Methods  A retrospective review was performed for all adults with chronic rhinosinusitis who received extended medical management prior to their BSP at two outpatient clinics, from November 1, 2013, to June 31, 2018. The patients' Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT) scores were compared between baseline, post-medication trials, and post-BSP. Results  The SNOT scores of a total of 64 patients were collected. Overall, patients showed a significant worsening of symptoms during the medication management trials from baseline ( p  = 0.002126) but significant improvement of symptoms after undergoing BSP ( p  < 0.0001). Conclusion  The patient symptom burden worsened and prolonged during medication management trials. The BSP procedure alone showed significant improvement in the quality of life for chronic rhinosinusitis patients, when considering their SNOT scores. The worsening of patients' symptoms during medication management may invalidate the necessity of prolonged medication management trials.

Real-world burden and treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis in Japan: A retrospective claims database analysis

Objectives

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a heterogeneous disease, which can be subdivided into CRS with (CRSwNP) or without (CRSsNP) nasal polyps. An intractable form of CRSwNP that is associated with an eosinophil-dominant inflammatory cell infiltration (eosinophilic CRS) has become more prevalent in Japan. There is currently limited information on the burden of CRS in Japan and treatment approaches used in real-world practice.

Methods

This retrospective, observational, comparative cohort study used information from the Japanese JMDC insurance claims database (study period April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2020). A CRS cohort was identified and matched with a control group without CRS. The primary objective was to clarify disease burden and treatment approaches by comparing comorbidities, healthcare resource utilization (HRU), and drug prescriptions in the CRS and non-CRS groups.

Results

In total, 23,256 individuals with CRS (1762 with CRSwNP and 21,494 with CRSsNP) were matched with 23,256 controls. The mean age was 45 years and the majority of individuals were male (57%). Individuals with CRS had a higher disease burden than controls, with more frequent comorbidities (particularly, type 2 inflammatory disease [e.g., allergic rhinitis and asthma], and those caused by systemic corticosteroids [SCS]), and higher HRU (including outpatient visits, laboratory examinations and surgical procedures). Further, individuals with CRS were prescribed more medications, both for CRS (including SCS) and non-CRS conditions, than controls.

Conclusion

In Japan, CRS is associated with a high disease burden, and multiple treatment approaches are used in affected individuals, including long-term SCS, which is generally not recommended.

Level of Evidence

3.

Association between outdoor air pollution and chronic rhinosinusitis patient reported outcomes

BACKGROUND

The aetiology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is multifactorial with a complex interplay between environmental, microbial endogenous and genetic factors. The impact of outdoor air pollution on prevalence or severity of CRS remains largely unknown.

METHODS

Real-life geolocation data (2017-2018, Belgium) from 278 CRS patients (2576 health records) using the mySinusitisCoach mobile application were analysed to calculate the patients' individual exposure to outdoor air pollutants (ozone (O₃), black carbon (BC), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter with diameter < 2.5 μm (PM_2.5)) and to associate these pollutants with the patients' sinus related symptoms measured at multiple occasions by visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

The adjusted seasonal model for the spring-summer (n = 1000 health entries, N = 83 patients) population revealed an increase of 6.07 (p < 0.0001) in overall CRS symptom scoring for an interquartile range (IQR) increase in exposure to O₃ (26.9 μg/m³). An increase of 1.69 (p = 0.05) in total CRS symptom scoring was observed for an IQR increase of PM_2.5 (7.1 µg/m³) exposure. Sex-stratified analysis in the spring-summer population showed significant interaction between air pollution and sex with male patients having higher total CRS symptom scores for an IQR increase in exposure to PM_2.5 (3.52, p = 0.001), and O₃ (8.33, p < 0.0001), while no significant association with symptom severity was seen in the female patients. In the analysis stratified by comorbid asthma, CRS patients with comorbid asthma had higher total CRS symptoms for an IQR increase in exposure to PM_2.5 (2.58, p = 0.04) and O₃ (7.72, p < 0.0001) while the patients without comorbid asthma had no significant symptom increases.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to outdoor air pollution is associated with increased symptom severity in CRS patients. The extent to which CRS patients are sensitive to outdoor air pollution exposure varies per season and depends on their sex and comorbid asthma status. mHealth technology has the potential to reveal novel insights on the patients' exposome and disease severity in the real-life situation.

Worsening Rhinosinusitis as a Prognostic Factor for Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study

Rhinosinusitis is common in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Our study aimed to explore the role of rhinosinusitis severity in NPC prognosis. Medical records and radiologic examinations of 90 patients with NPC at a single medical center from 2009−2016 were retrospectively analyzed. The Lund−Mackay (L−M) score was obtained for each patient before and after 6 months of treatment. Rhinosinusitis diagnosis was based on L−M scores of ≥4. L−M score differences were calculated as pre-treatment rhinosinusitis (PRRS) minus post-treatment rhinosinusitis (PSRS). L−M score difference was sub-grouped into “L−M scores > 0”, “L−M scores = 0”, and “L−M scores < 0”. Clinical staging of our patients based on the American Joint Committee on Cancer 7th edition were: stage I in nine, stage II in seventeen, stage III in twenty-two, and stage IV in forty-two patients; twenty-seven (30%) patients had died. PRRS incidence was 34.4%, and PSRS was 36.7%. Median of L−M scores difference was 0 (−2.2). L−M score difference was an independent prognostic factor for the overall survival of patients with NPC (p < 0.05). Therefore, worsening rhinosinusitis was a prognostic factor for patients with NPC. Clinicians should consider NPC as a warning sign of poor prognosis during routine follow-ups.

Sweet taste receptor agonists attenuate macrophage IL-1β expression and eosinophilic inflammation linked to autophagy deficiency in myeloid cells

BACKGROUND

Eosinophilic inflammation is a hallmark of refractory chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and considered a major therapeutic target. Autophagy deficiency in myeloid cells plays a causal role in eosinophilic CRS (ECRS) via macrophage IL-1β overproduction, thereby suggesting autophagy regulation as a potential therapeutic modality. Trehalose is a disaccharide sugar with known pro-autophagy activity and effective in alleviating diverse inflammatory diseases. We sought to investigate the therapeutic potential of autophagy-enhancing agent, trehalose, or related sugar compounds, and the underlying mechanism focusing on macrophage IL-1β production in ECRS pathogenesis.

METHODS

We investigated the therapeutic effects of trehalose and saccharin on macrophage IL-1β production and eosinophilia in the mouse model of ECRS with myeloid cell-specific autophagy-related gene 7 (Atg7) deletion. The mechanisms underlying their anti-inflammatory effects were assessed using specific inhibitor, genetic knockdown or knockout, and overexpression of cognate receptors.

RESULTS

Unexpectedly, trehalose significantly attenuated eosinophilia and disease pathogenesis in ECRS mice caused by autophagy deficiency in myeloid cells. This autophagy-independent effect was associated with reduced macrophage IL-1β expression. Various sugars recapitulated the anti-inflammatory effect of trehalose, and saccharin was particularly effective amongst other sugars. The mechanistic study revealed an involvement of sweet taste receptor (STR), especially T1R3, in alleviating macrophage IL-1β production and eosinophilia in CRS, which was supported by genetic depletion of T1R3 or overexpression of T1R2/T1R3 in macrophages and treatment with the T1R3 antagonist gurmarin.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed a previously unappreciated anti-inflammatory effect of STR agonists, particularly trehalose and saccharin, and may provide an alternative strategy to autophagy modulation in the ECRS treatment.

Nasal Microbiota, Olfactory Health, Neurological Disorders and Aging—A Review

The nasal region is one of the distinct environments for the survival of various microbiota. The human microbial niche begins to inhabit the human body right from birth, and the microbiota survive as commensals or opportunistic pathogens throughout the life of humans in their bodies in various habitats. These microbial communities help to maintain a healthy microenvironment by preventing the attack of pathogens and being involved in immune regulation. Any dysbiosis of microbiota residing in the mucosal surfaces, such as the nasal passages, guts, and genital regions, causes immune modulation and severe infections. The coexistence of microorganisms in the mucosal layers of respiratory passage, resulting in infections due to their co-abundance and interactions, and the background molecular mechanisms responsible for such interactions, need to be considered for investigation. Additional clinical evaluations can explain the interactions among the nasal microbiota, nasal dysbiosis and neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). The respiratory airways usually act as a substratum place for the microbes and can act as the base for respiratory tract infections. The microbial metabolites and the microbes can cross the blood–brain barrier and may cause NDs, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). The scientific investigations on the potential role of the nasal microbiota in olfactory functions and the relationship between their dysfunction and neurological diseases are limited. Recently, the consequences of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in patients with neurological diseases are under exploration. The crosstalk between the gut and the nasal microbiota is highly influential, because their mucosal regions are the prominent microbial niche and are connected to the olfaction, immune regulation, and homeostasis of the central nervous system. Diet is one of the major factors, which strongly influences the mucosal membranes of the airways, gut, and lung. Unhealthy diet practices cause dysbiosis in gut microbiota and the mucosal barrier. The current review summarizes the interrelationship between the nasal microbiota dysbiosis, resulting olfactory dysfunctions, and the progression of NDs during aging and the involvement of coronavirus disease 2019 in provoking the NDs.

Serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 levels in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis correlate with clinical severity

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a group of heterogeneous diseases characterized by epithelial inflammation and tissue eosinophilic infiltration. IL-5, POSTN, and IL-33 are important factors that act as chemoattractants for eosinophils, and a tissue-remodeling protein positively correlated with eosinophils in blood and mediators of eosinophilic infiltration. The aim of the study was to determine the expression of IL-5, POSTN and IL-33, at the gene and protein levels, in eosinophilic CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and to correlate this expression with clinical severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 40 CRSwNP patients and 53 CRSsNP patients and 40 control subjects. The expression of IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 mRNA was determined in sinonasal mucosal samples and in nasal polyp tissue by real-time PCR. Protein levels in the serum of CRSwNP patients were measured by ELISA. Computed tomography was evaluated according to Lund-Mackay scores, and visual analog scale scores were assessed.

RESULTS

NP tissue demonstrated significantly higher IL-5 and POSTN mRNA expression than the sinonasal tissue in the CRSsNP and CRSwNP groups. CRS groups demonstrated elevated IL-33 mRNA expression in comparison to controls irrespective of the presence of NP. No correlation was found between IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 mRNA expression and disease severity. CRSwNP group demonstrated significantly higher serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 protein levels than controls, and this corresponds to disease severity.

CONCLUSION

Serum IL-5, POSTN and IL-33 levels may be important markers for classification of eosinophilic CRSwNP patients, along with disease severity.

Chronic Rhinosinusitis, S. aureus Biofilm and Secreted Products, Inflammatory Responses, and Disease Severity

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a persistent inflammation of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses associated with tissue remodelling, dysfunction of the sinuses' natural defence mechanisms, and induction of different inflammatory clusters. The etiopathogenesis of CRS remains elusive, and both environmental factors, such as bacterial biofilms and the host's general condition, are thought to play a role. Bacterial biofilms have significant clinical relevance due to their potential to cause resistance to antimicrobial therapy and host defenses. Despite substantial medical advances, some CRS patients suffer from recalcitrant disease that is unresponsive to medical and surgical treatments. Those patients often have nasal polyps with tissue eosinophilia, S. aureus-dominant mucosal biofilm, comorbid asthma, and a severely compromised quality of life. This review aims to summarise the contemporary knowledge of inflammatory cells/pathways in CRS, the role of bacterial biofilm, and their impact on the severity of the disease. Here, an emphasis is placed on S. aureus biofilm and its secreted products. A better understanding of these factors might offer important diagnostic and therapeutic perceptions for recalcitrant disease.

DNMTs Are Involved in TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transitions in Airway Epithelial Cells

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) pathogenesis is closely related to tissue remodeling, including epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Epigenetic mechanisms play key roles in EMT. DNA methylation, mediated by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), is an epigenetic marker that is critical to EMT. The goal of this study was to determine whether DNMTs were involved in TGF-β1-induced EMT and elucidate the underlying mechanisms in nasal epithelial cells and air–liquid interface cultures. Global DNA methylation and DNMT activity were quantified. DNMT expression was measured using real-time PCR (qRT–PCR) in human CRS tissues. mRNA and protein levels of DNMTs, E-cadherin, vimentin, α-SMA, and fibronectin were determined using RT–PCR and Western blotting, respectively. DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B gene expression were knocked down using siRNA transfection. MAPK phosphorylation and EMT-related transcription factor levels were determined using Western blotting. Signaling pathways were analyzed using specific inhibitors of MAPK. We demonstrated these data in primary nasal epithelial cells and air–liquid interface cultures. Global DNA methylation, DNMT activity, and DNMT expression increased in CRS tissues. DNMT expression was positively correlated with Lund–McKay CT scores. TGF-β1 dose-dependently induced DNMT expression. Further, 5-Aza inhibited TGF-β1-induced DNMT, Snail, and Slug expression related to EMT, as well as p38 and JNK phosphorylation in A549 cells and TGF-β1-induced DNMT expression and EMT in primary nasal epithelial cells and air–liquid interface cultures. TGF-β1-induced DNMT expression leads to DNA methylation and EMT via p38, JNK, Snail, and Slug signaling pathways. Inhibition of DNMT suppressed the EMT process and therefore is potentially a CRS therapeutic strategy.

Real-world evidence analysis of the impact of steroid-eluting implants on healthcare resource use among chronic rhinosinusitis patients undergoing sinus surgery

OBJECTIVE

To compare healthcare resource use (HCRU) in patients undergoing sinus surgery with or without steroid-eluting sinus implants.

METHODS

A retrospective, observational cohort study using real-world evidence data (OM1, Inc, Boston, MA, USA) was conducted on adult patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with or without nasal polyps who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery between 2014 and 2019 and had at least 18 months of data both before and after surgery. Patients receiving implants ("implant cohort") were matched to patients who did not receive implants ("non-implant cohort") based on a propensity score developed using baseline characteristics. Chi-square for binary variables and analysis of variance tests for continuous variables were applied to compare HCRU measures.

RESULTS

Comparison of the implant (N = 1983) and non-implant (N = 1983) cohorts during the 18-month follow-up period demonstrated significantly lower HCRU in those receiving implants, including all-cause outpatient visits (94.3% vs. 96.6%, p < .001), all-cause otolaryngologist visits (47.3% vs. 59.6%, p < .001) and all cause ER/urgent care visits (9.2% vs. 11.8%, p = .007), as well as sinus-related endoscopies (39.1% vs. 43.8%, p = .003). Although not statistically significant, fewer patients in the implant cohort had undergone repeat surgeries (4.6% vs. 5.3%, p = .273).

CONCLUSION

Patients with steroid-eluting sinus implants had lower HCRU over a post-operative period of 18 months. These findings support the contention that reductions in HCRU may be achieved using steroid-eluting implants during sinus surgery.What is known on this topicChronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) causes severe symptoms that lead to poor quality of life.Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is 76-98% effective in improving CRS patients' symptoms.Surgical outcomes can be compromised in the immediate post-operative period by scarring, adhesion formation, and early polyp recurrence.Oral and topical corticosteroid therapy has become integral to the maintenance of successful surgical outcomes, the management of post-operative scarring and edema, and the prevention of nasal polyp recurrence.Steroid-eluting sinus implants have been shown in clinical trials to improve postoperative outcomes after ESS by delivering localized, sustained release of corticosteroids directly onto inflamed sinus tissue.What this study addsThis observational study is one of the first to use real-world evidence to assess the effect of steroid-eluting sinus implants on healthcare resource use (HCRU) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent sinus surgery with or without implants.Use of implants significantly reduced HCRU, including all-cause outpatient visits (94.3% vs 96.6%, p < .001), all-cause otolaryngologist visits (47.3% vs 59.6%, p < .001), and all-cause ER/urgent care visits (9.2% vs 11.8%, p = .007), as well as sinus endoscopy (39.1% vs 43.8%, p = .003).Use of implants had no significant effect on sinus procedures such as debridement and polypectomy, as well as sinus-related imaging such as CT, MRI, and x-ray.

The role of fungus in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The etiologic role of fungi in chronic rhinosinusitis remains controversial. The purpose of this review is to further our understanding of molecular immunologic pathways activated by fungi and clinical trials of antifungals in severe subtypes of asthma and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Various fungal components such as protease and chitin are capable of eliciting a type 2 innate and adaptive immune response. However, definitive studies on the etiologic role of fungi in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is dependent on the development of a fungi-induced murine model of CRS. Short of this model, extrapolations of observations and results from clinical trials in fungi-induced asthma subtypes support a key role of fungi in the pathophysiology of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis and possibly other CRS endotypes.

SUMMARY

Fungi plays a key role in the pathophysiology of several subtypes of chronic inflammatory respiratory diseases. However, a fungi-induced murine model of CRS is needed to explicitly investigate the molecular pathways and potential therapeutic targets.

When rhinosinusitis is not just rhinosinusitis: Clinical characteristics and phenotypes of patients with type 2 chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a chronic and recurrent disease that negatively affects patients' quality of life. CRS has two main phenotypes: CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and CRS without polyps (CRSsNP). Minimal research has been conducted to study the variability in patients' characteristics. Therefore, we conducted this study to examine these differences.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study included patients with both CRSwNP and CRSsNP. Outcomes included symptom severity, radiographic severity, and number of sinus surgeries. Symptom severity was assessed using the Sino-nasal Outcome Test and the Lund-Mackay CT score was used to determine radiographic severity. Further subgroup analysis was done based on the presence or absence of comorbid asthma.

RESULTS

A total of 110 and 106 patients were included in the CRSwNP and CRSsNP groups, respectively. The mean age in the CRSwNP and CRSsNP groups was 50.2 and 48.7, and the proportion of female patients was 40.9% and 58.5%, respectively. No significant difference in symptom severity was noted between CRSwNP and CRSsNP group (68.1±18.6 vs. 73.2±21.27; P=0.097), while the Lund-Mackay score was significantly lower in the CRSsNP group (7.4±2.3 vs. 11.9±3.6; P=0.016). Also, the number of surgeries was significantly lower in the CRSsNP group as compared to the CRSwNP group (P=0.023). Subgroup analysis revealed statistically significant differences between those with and without asthma in patients with CRSwNP in terms of Lund-Mackay scores and number of surgeries (P=0.038 and 0.043), respectively. However, no significant differences were noted in the CRSsNP group (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a clear variability in the characteristics of patients with CRSsNP and CRSwNP. A similar difference was noted in the CRSwNP group when patients were stratified based on the presence of absence of asthma. This warrants further investigation of potential correlation with the prognosis and optimum treatment strategies of this patient population.

Ginsenoside F1 Attenuates Eosinophilic Inflammation in Chronic Rhinosinusitis by Promoting NK Cell Function

Background

Ginsenosides have beneficial effects on several airway inflammatory disorders primarily through glucocorticosteroid-like anti-inflammatory activity. Among inflammatory cells, eosinophils play a major pathogenic role in conferring a risk of severe refractory diseases including chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, the role of ginsenosides in reducing eosinophilic inflammation and CRS pathogenesis is unexplored.

Methods

We investigated the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanism of ginsenoside F1 (G-F1) in comparison with those of dexamethasone, a representative glucocorticosteroid, in a murine model of CRS. The effects of G-F1 or dexamethasone on sinonasal abnormalities and infiltration of eosinophils and mast cells were evaluated by histological analyses. The changes in inflammatory cytokine levels in sinonasal tissues, macrophages, and NK cells were assessed by qPCR, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry.

Results

We found that G-F1 significantly attenuated eosinophilic inflammation, mast cell infiltration, epithelial hyperplasia, and mucosal thickening in the sinonasal mucosa of CRS mice. Moreover, G-F1 reduced the expression of IL-4 and IL-13, as well as hematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase required for prostaglandin D₂ production. This therapeutic efficacy was associated with increased NK cell function, without suppression of macrophage inflammatory responses. In comparison, dexamethasone potently suppressed macrophage activation. NK cell depletion nullified the therapeutic effects of G-F1, but not dexamethasone, in CRS mice, supporting a causal link between G-F1 and NK cell activity.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that potentiating NK cell activity, for example with G-F1, is a promising strategy for resolving eosinophilic inflammation in CRS.

Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Alzheimer's Disease-A Possible Role for the Nasal Microbiome in Causing Neurodegeneration in the Elderly

Among millions of sufferers of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), the challenge is not only constantly coping with CRS-related symptoms, such as congested nose, sinus pain, and headaches, but also various complications, such as attention difficulties and possible depression. These complications suggest that neural activity in the central nervous system may be altered in those patients, leading to unexpected conditions, such as neurodegeneration in elderly patients. Recently, some studies linked the presence of CRS and cognitive impairments that could further develop into Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly and is characterised by progressive memory loss, cognitive behavioural deficits, and significant personality changes. The microbiome, especially those in the gut, has been recognised as a human organ and plays an important role in the development of various conditions, including AD. However, less attention has been paid to the microbiome in the nasal cavity. Increased nasal inflammatory responses due to CRS may be an initial event that changes local microbiome homeostasis, which may further affect neuronal integrity in the central nervous system resulting in AD. Evidence suggests a potential of β-amyloid deposition starting in olfactory neurons, which is then expanded from the nasal cavity to the central nervous system. In this paper, we reviewed currently available evidence that suggests this potential mechanism to advise the need to investigate the link between these two conditions.

Unilateral Intervention in the Sinuses of Rabbits Induces Bilateral Inflammatory and Microbial Changes

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a globally prevalent inflammatory condition of the paranasal sinuses which severely impairs patients' quality of life. An animal model of unilateral sinusitis by transient sinus occlusion has been described previously in rabbits. The aim of this study was to characterise the sinusitis rabbit model by investigating temporal and bilateral changes in the bacterial community and mucosal inflammation.

Methods

Development of sinusitis was achieved by endoscopically placing Merocel ^® , a sterile nasal packing material, in the left middle meatus of six New Zealand white rabbits for four weeks. After a total period of 14 weeks, rabbits were assessed for sinusitis by endoscopic examination, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histology. Swabs from the left and right middle meatus were obtained for bacterial community analysis at three time points (week 0, week 4, week 14) during the study.

Results

Endoscopic evaluation showed unilateral inflammation in all animals examined after the 4-week blocking period and at week 14. Notably, inflammatory changes were also seen in the contralateral sinus of all animals at week 4. MRI images demonstrated unilateral sinus opacification at week 4 in two rabbits, and partial unilateral sinus opacification at week 14 in one rabbit only. Histological analyses revealed substantial spatial heterogeneity of mucosal inflammation with inconsistent findings across all animals. No significant differences in mucosal inflammatory markers (such as goblet cell hyperplasia, epithelial denudation and oedema) could be identified between nostrils at week 14. The bacterial community in the rabbit sinuses was heavily dominated by Helicobacter at week 0 (baseline). At the end of the blocking period (week 4), bacterial alpha and beta diversity were significantly increased in both nostrils. The bacterial community composition at week 14 had primarily returned to baseline, reflecting the endoscopic and radiological results.

Conclusion

This study reaffirmed the ability for development of sinusitis without inoculation of any pathogens in a rabbit model. We were able to demonstrate bilateral sinonasal mucosal inflammation, by inducing unilateral sinus blockage, which resulted in significant changes to the sinonasal bacterial community. These findings may explain some of the clinical observations seen in CRS and warrant further research to reveal potential implications for its therapeutic management.

The association of active and passive tobacco smoke exposure with chronic rhinosinusitis symptom severity: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

 Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) causes a great deal of morbidity. There are a multitude of causal factors, though their precise contribution to symptom severity has yet to be defined.  We hypothesized that exposure to both primary and secondhand tobacco smoke would correlate with more severe symptoms of CRS.

METHODS

This is a prospective cross-sectional study performed at an academic tertiary care medical center from 2010 to 2013. A total of 85 consecutive patients with chronic sinusitis were screened; 70 with medically refractory CRS requiring functional Endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) were enrolled. Recent tobacco exposure was assessed using serum cotinine levels. Sinonasal mucosa was biopsied to assess ciliary architecture. Demographics, medical history, tobacco and environmental exposures, and computed tomography (CT) imaging were also collected. Two quality of life (QOL) surveys were administered: one disease specific, Sinonasal Outcomes Test-20 (SNOT-20), and one general, Short Form-12 (SF-12). Results were correlated with the aforementioned exposures.

RESULTS

 The 70 patients had an average age of 46 years, and 42% were male.  Variables that correlated with worse SNOT-20 scores included serum cotinine (r = 0.43, p = 0.002), number of cigarettes smoked daily (r = 0.27, p = 0.03), and number of secondhand cigarettes exposed to per day (r = 0.29, p = 0.04). There were no significant correlations between SNOT-20 scores and Lund-MacKay or axonemal ultrastructural abnormalities (AUA)-ciliary scores. The two five-variable models best predicted disease-specific QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

 Increased amounts of serum cotinine and primary and secondhand smoke exposure were associated with worse sinonasal QOL. This study establishes an objective relationship between smoke exposure and patient-perceived severity of CRS, emphasizing the importance of tobacco cessation counseling as part of management.

Identification of Risk Factors for Coexisting Sinusitis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Background

This study aimed to analyze the association of coexisting sinusitis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), establish significant factors involved in their development, and enable further biological correlation between these 2 diseases.

Methods

The IBD and Sinusitis Study at UChicago Medicine (TISSUe) is a retrospective, single-center study. We reviewed patients to confirm IBD and chronic sinusitis diagnoses. Case-control propensity score matching was performed using matched controls with IBD only or sinusitis only. Statistical methods included chi-squared test and Wilcoxon rank sum test. Logistic regression analysis was performed, and factors were considered significant if P &lt; .05.

Results

Stratifying 214 patients with coexisting IBD and sinusitis, 176 patients had IBD first and 38 patients had sinusitis first. Multivariable analysis of factors associated with subsequent disease with matched controls determined that duration of disease, UC, steroid exposure ever, and younger age of IBD diagnosis were associated with subsequent sinusitis in patients with IBD; steroid exposure ever and duration of sinusitis were significantly associated with subsequent IBD in patients with sinusitis.

Conclusion

This study suggests that IBD maintenance therapies are not associated with increased risk of sinusitis, as proposed by adverse events in clinical trial data; rather, UC diagnosis and duration of disease may be more influential in sinusitis development. While further studies are necessary, this study also demonstrates that sinusitis precedes IBD in some patients, probing its biological association with IBD and possible classification as an extraintestinal manifestation.

Association between obesity and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: a national population-based study

OBJECTIVES

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of data from the nationwide Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to evaluate the association between obesity and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) or without nasal polyp (CRSsNP).

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of health survey data.

SETTING

Voluntary survey of representative South Korean populations.

PARTICIPANTS

In total, 32 384 individuals aged 19 years or older with available data on CRS and obesity were included.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Diagnosis of CRSwNP or CRSsNP was performed by trained otolaryngologists through sinus endoscopy and surveys of medical history. General and central obesity was diagnosed using body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC), respectively.

METHODS

A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to clarify the association between CRSwNP or CRSsNP and obesity according to BMI and WC. Non-obese individuals were recruited as controls.

RESULTS

The prevalence of CRSwNP was higher in the general (OR, 1.438; 95% CI, 1.170 to 1.768; p<0.001) and central (OR, 1.251; 95% CI, 1.031 to 1.520; p=0.033) obesity groups than in the control group. Prevalence of CRSsNP was not correlated with obesity. In a logistic regression analysis, olfactory dysfunction (OR, 1.329; 95% CI, 1.137 to 1.553; p<0.001) and purulent discharge (OR, 1.383; 95% CI, 1.193 to 1.603; p<0.001) showed a higher incidence in the central obesity group than in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated an association between CRSwNP and general and central obesity. Further investigations on the mechanism underlying this correlation are necessary for an improved understanding of the pathogenesis of CRSwNP.

Murine Model of Sinusitis Infection for Screening Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Therapies

The very common condition of sinusitis is characterized by persistent inflammation of the nasal cavity, which contributes to chronic rhinosinusitis and morbidity of cystic fibrosis patients. Colonization by opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa triggers inflammation that is exacerbated by defects in the innate immune response. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying initial colonization of the sinuses are not well established. Despite their extensive use, current murine models of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis have not improved the understanding of early disease stages due to analytical limitations. In this study, a model is described that is technically simple, allows non-invasive tracking of bacterial infection, and screening of host-responses to infection and therapies. The model was modified to investigate longer-term infection and disease progression by using a less virulent, epidemic P. aeruginosa cystic fibrosis clinical isolate LESB65. Tracking of luminescent bacteria was possible after intranasal infections, which were sustained for up to 120 h post-infection, without compromising the overall welfare of the host. Production of reactive oxidative species was associated with neutrophil localization to the site of infection in this model. Further, host-defense peptides administered by Respimat® inhaler or intranasal instillation reduced bacterial burden and impacted disease progression as well as cytokine responses associated with rhinosinusitis. Thus, future studies using this model will improve our understanding of rhinosinusitis etiology and early stage pathogenesis, and can be used to screen for the efficacy of emerging therapies pre-clinically.

Non-steroid, non-antibiotic anti-biofilm therapy for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Chronic rhinosinusitis patients with biofilms cultured from their sinonasal cavity have greater symptom burden and risk of recalcitrant disease. A number of non-antibiotic, 'anti-biofilm' treatments exist which show anti-biofilm properties in preclinical studies. There is little evidence evaluating their impact on clinical symptom scores in chronic rhinosinusitis.

METHOD

A systematic review was performed to assess the literature regarding the efficacy of non-steroid, non-antibiotic, anti-biofilm specific topical therapies in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. The primary outcome assessed was change in validated patient reported outcome measures before and after anti-biofilm treatment.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies assessing the effect of anti-biofilm therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis through validated patient-reported outcome measures were included. Seven different anti-biofilm specific therapies for chronic rhinosinusitis were identified. None of the seven anti-biofilm therapies was identified as being confidently efficacious beyond placebo. Only one therapy (intranasal xylitol) showed a statistically significant reduction in symptom scores compared with placebo in more than one trial.

CONCLUSION

Robust evidence supporting the use of various anti-biofilm therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis is lacking. Further high quality, human, in vivo trials studying the effect of anti-biofilm therapies in chronic rhinosinusitis are needed to address the deficiencies of the current evidence base.

Assessment of Quality of Life and the Risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Individuals with Chronic Rhinosinusitis who are Candidate for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis is associated with changes in quality of life (QoL). The present study intended to evaluate the QoL and risk of obstructive sleep apnea in individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis who were candidate for functional endoscopic sinus surgery. To determine the Quality of Life and the risk of sleep apnea in cases with chronic Rhinosinusitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 100 patients with drug-resistant chronic rhinosinusitis candidate for functional endoscopic sinus surgery referred to the ENT clinic of Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran were recruited. SNOT-22 and STOP-BANG questionnaires were filled before the surgery.

RESULTS

The mean SNOT-22 score was 40.44, with a standard deviation of 19.27 (ranged from 1 to 94). Also, according to the STOP-BANG questionnaire, 62% of participants were at increased risk of OSA. Based on the cut-off point of 30 for the SNOT-22 score (either larger or lower than 30), patients were categorized into two groups. Sixty-eight percent of participants were categorized in ≥ 30 SNOT-22 score. Age below 50, female gender, and those at high risk of OSA were associated with lower QoL.

CONCLUSION

Most patients with chronic rhinosinusitis had a low QoL and were mostly at increased risk of OSA. Being women younger than 50 years and the presence of OSA probably are associated with lower QoL in these patients.

Histamine Induced Production of Chemokine CXCL8 Through H1R/PLC and NF-κB Signaling Pathways in Nasal Fibroblasts

Background and Objectives: Histamine has been suggested to play an important role during allergic and inflammatory reactions, affecting allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis. CXCL8 is a pro-inflammatory chemokine and a critical factor that causes many airway inflammatory diseases including allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis.Materials and Method: Histamine cytotoxicity was measured by MTT assay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to identify histamine type 1 receptor in nasal fibroblasts. The fibroblasts were then treated with histamine with or without a histamine type 1 receptor antagonist and the CXCL8 protein was assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The downstream signaling molecules, including phospholipase C and phospho-p50, were evaluated by western blot and immunofluorescent staining.Results: Histamine had no significant cytotoxic effect until the concentration reached 1,000 μM. Histamine type 1 receptor mRNA was expressed in nasal fibroblasts. CXCL8 protein expression level was significantly increased following histamine stimulation. However, the expression level of CXCL8 decreased when phospholipase C was inhibited by U73122. Histamine increased phospho-p50 expression as seen in western blot results. The BAY11-7082, NF-κB inhibitor significantly reduced CXCL8 production in histamine-stimulated nasal fibroblasts.Conclusion: Histamine can induce the production of NF-κB controlled-chemokine CXCL8 by nasal fibroblasts, which supports a role for histamine in upper airway inflammatory diseases.

An Overview of the Application of Systems Biology in an Understanding of Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) Development

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory disease of the paranasal sinuses. It is defined as the presence of a minimum of two out of four main symptoms such as hyposmia, facial pain, nasal blockage, and discharge, which last for 8–12 weeks. CRS significantly impairs a patient’s quality of life. It needs special treatment mainly focusing on preventing local infection/inflammation with corticosteroid sprays or improving sinus drainage using nasal saline irrigation. When other treatments fail, endoscopic sinus surgery is considered an effective option. According to the state-of-the-art knowledge of CRS, there is more evidence suggesting that it is more of an inflammatory disease than an infectious one. This condition is also treated as a multifactorial inflammatory disorder as it may be triggered by various factors, such as bacterial or fungal infections, airborne irritants, defects in innate immunity, or the presence of concomitant diseases. Due to the incomplete understanding of the pathological processes of CRS, there is a continuous search for new indicators that are directly related to the pathogenesis of this disease—e.g., in the field of systems biology. The studies adopting systems biology search for possible factors responsible for the disease at genetic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic levels. The analyses of the changes in the genome, transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome may reveal the dysfunctional pathways of inflammatory regulation and provide a clear insight into the pathogenesis of this disease. Therefore, in the present paper, we have summarized the state-of-the-art knowledge of the application of systems biology in the pathology and development of CRS.

miR‑155‑5p downregulation inhibits epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition by targeting SIRT1 in human nasal epithelial cells

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in nasal epithelial cells is involved with tissue remodeling of nasal polyps. The present study investigated the molecular mechanisms through which miR-155-5p regulated EMT in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Patients were divided into the following groups: CRSsNP, CRS without nasal polyposis group, CRSwNP, CRS with nasal polyposis and controls. The expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, EMT markers, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and miR-155-5p were determined by western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Cell morphology following TGF-β1 treatment in the presence of miR-155-5p inhibitors or controls was observed under a microscope. Target genes and potential binding sites between miR-155-5p and SIRT1 were predicted by TargetScan and confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assay. In patients with CRS, the expression levels of E-cadherin were downregulated and the expression levels of TGF-β1, mesenchymal markers and miR-155-5p were upregulated. Additionally, these changes in expression levels were reduced or increased to a greater extent in the CRSwNP group compared with the CRSsNP group. Furthermore, TGF-β1 expression promoted EMT in human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs) and upregulated miR-155-5p expression. These effects were reversed by miR-155-5p inhibitors. Additionally, SIRT1 was predicted as a target gene of miR-155-5p. Downregulation of miR-155-5p upregulated epithelial marker expression and downregulated mesenchymal marker expression by regulating SIRT1. Therefore, the downregulation of miR-155-5p inhibited EMT in HNEpCs by targeting SIRT1.

Contribution of Short Chain Fatty Acids to the Growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Rhinosinusitis

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is characterized by complex bacterial infections with persistent inflammation. Based on our rabbit model of sinusitis, blockage of sinus ostia generated a shift in microbiota to a predominance of mucin degrading microbes (MDM) with acute inflammation at 2 weeks. This was followed by conversion to chronic sinus inflammation at 3 months with a robust increase in pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas). MDMs are known to produce acid metabolites [short chain fatty acids (SCFA)] that have the potential to stimulate pathogen growth by offering a carbon source to non-fermenting sinus pathogens (e.g., Pseudomonas). The objective of this study is to evaluate the concentrations of SCFA within the mucus and its contribution to the growth of P. aeruginosa. Methods: Healthy and sinusitis mucus from the rabbit model were collected and co-cultured with the PAO1 strain of P. aeruginosa for 72 h and colony forming units (CFUs) were determined with the targeted quantification of three SCFAs (acetate, propionate, butyrate). Quantification of SCFAs in healthy and sinusitis mucus from patients with P. aeruginosa was also performed via high performance liquid chromatography. Results: To provide evidence of fermentative activity, SCFAs were quantified within the mucus samples from rabbits with and without sinusitis. Acetate concentrations were significantly greater in sinusitis mucus compared to controls (4.13 ± 0.53 vs. 1.94 ± 0.44 mM, p < 0.01). After 72 h of co-culturing mucus samples with PAO1 in the presence of mucin medium, the blue-green pigment characteristic of Pseudomonas was observed throughout tubes containing sinusitis mucus. CFUs were higher in cultures containing mucus samples from sinusitis (8.4 × 10⁹ ± 4.8 × 10⁷) compared to control (1.4 × 10⁹ ± 2.0 × 10⁷) or no mucus (1.5 × 10⁹ ± 2.1 × 10⁷) (p < 0.0001). To provide evidence of fermentative activity in human CRS with P. aeruginosa, the presence of SCFAs in human mucus was analyzed and all SCFAs were significantly higher in CRS with P. aeruginosa compared to controls (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Given that SCFAs are solely derived from bacterial fermentation, our evidence suggests a critical role for mucin-degrading bacteria in generating carbon-source nutrients for pathogens. MDM may contribute to the development of recalcitrant CRS by degrading mucins, thus providing nutrients for potential pathogens like P. aeruginosa.

Risk factors for neo-osteogenesis in cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this retrospective review was to determine how patient-related factors and culture data affect neo-osteogenesis in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with CRS.

METHODS

Information from a database associated with a large tertiary medical center was used to assess adult patients with CF CRS and non-CF CRS (total, n = 102; CF CRS, n = 31; non-CF CRS, n = 71). Radiologic evidence of neo-osteogenesis was measured using the Global Osteitis Scoring Scale (GOSS), and mucosal disease was assessed using the Lund-Mackay score (LMS) by 2 independent reviewers who were blinded to the patient's disease state. Bacterial cultures were obtained endoscopically. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the effect of age, sex, number of previous surgeries, CF, and culture species on the odds of neo-osteogenesis.

RESULTS

Fifty-one of the 102 patients (50%) met radiologic criteria for neo-osteogenesis. Sixty-nine patients (67.6%) with CF CRS and non-CF CRS had culture data. In the multiple logistic regression model, male gender was significantly associated with neo-osteogenesis (odds ratio [OR], 5.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.68-17.86; p = 0.006). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was not associated with neo-osteogenesis (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 0.84-12.80; p = 0.097). Age, number of surgeries, CF, Staphylococcus aureus, and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess risk factors associated with neo-osteogenesis and patients with CF CRS. Interestingly, male gender was the only significant predictor of neo-osteogenesis.

NK cells in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis show decreased maturity and limited expression of functional receptors

Chronic rhinosinusitis is an inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, presenting with two phenotypes that differ in symptoms and inflammatory profiles: either with or without polyps. Natural killer (NK) cells are involved in both the innate and acquired immune response, and their function may be limited under pathological conditions, leading to polyp formation. We determined NK cell involvement and maturity in chronic rhinosinusitis, by determining the percentage of NK cells in polyps, nasal mucosa, and in the peripheral blood. Material was obtained from 49 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (36 with polyps, 13 without polyps), and 15 control patients. Flow cytometry was used to immunophenotype NK cells, and the expression of selected functional receptors was evaluated. NK cells were found to be increased in polyp tissue versus peripheral blood and nasal mucosa. NK cell maturation differed significantly with predominance of a cytotoxic phenotype (CD11b+/27-) in peripheral blood, compared with a regulatory/tolerogenic phenotype (CD11+/-/ 27+) in tissue material. These findings demonstrate the involvement of NK cells in the inflammatory process of chronic rhinosinusitis. Decreased expression of activating receptors in the analyzed groups may also indicate the presence of modifying agents. Disorders of the maturation process of NK cells may be an important element in the etiopathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis with and without polyps.

Multiple gene expression profiling suggests epithelial dysfunction in polypoid chronic rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a heterogeneous inflammatory disorder resulting from a complex gene-environment interaction. Although its aetiology remains elusive, numerous studies reported gene expression alterations of factors apparently implicated in all aspects of the inflammatory response. However, most investigations are limited, unconfirmed analyses of a single gene. Moreover, studies concerning multiple gene expression analyses, usually on inflammatory mediators (e.g. cytokines), show contrasting outcomes in part due to use of heterogeneous samples or methodologies with limited power. In this scenario, our goal was to simultaneously evaluate the expression of a panel of selected genes (AQP5, MUC5AC, CAV1, LTF, COX2, PGDS, TNFα, TGFβ1, MGB1) potentially involved in CRS inflammatory mechanisms. While most of the samples collected were excluded from the analysis because of poor quality RNA, we were able to demonstrate statistically significant downregulation of the AQP5, CAV1, LTF, MGB1 genes in a specific subset of polypoid CRS (patients without typical comorbidities), which might suggest relevant underlying epithelial dysfunction. Further studies are needed to enrich our knowledge on the pathogenesis of CRS. Forthcoming approaches might utilise next-generation RNA sequencing and comprehensive bioinformatics analyses to better characterise the transcriptome profiles of CRS endotypes.

α-Helical cell-penetrating peptide-mediated nasal delivery of resveratrol for inhibition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition

In the present study, we examined the potential of cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-based intranasal drug delivery for the treatment of localized nasal diseases. Many charged or non-hydrophobic drugs have difficulty penetrating into the nasal epithelium due to intrinsic membrane impermeability and rapid mucociliary clearance in the nasal cavity. To treat chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), one of the most common localized nasal diseases, we conjugated resveratrol (RSV) to an amphiphilic α-helical leucine (L)- and lysine (K)-rich CPP (LK) and intranasally delivered it to the interior of nasal epithelial cells for inhibiting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) caused by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α. The RSV-LK conjugate could penetrate into the nasal epithelium and efficiently inhibit EMT, nasal polyp formation, epithelial disruption, and related inflammation in an eosinophilic CRSwNP mouse model, at 10-fold lower doses and with 3-fold less frequent administration than free RSV. Due to the rapid penetration into the nasal epithelium and the therapeutic effect of the RSV-LK conjugate at much lower doses than free RSV, this CPP-based delivery system, with the ability to overcome the tight nasal epithelial barrier, may provide a new strategy for the treatment of localized nasal diseases without the systemic side effects of cargo drugs.

Cancer risk in chronic rhinosinusitis: a propensity score matched case-control cohort study

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) have infection, innate immune disorder and chronic inflammation problems which are considered as potential mechanism of tumorigenesis. To estimate cancer risk in CRS using propensity scores matching (PSM) case-control cohort study.

METHODS

A nationwide retrospective case-control cohort study is conducted on claim data from National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. From January 2000 to December 2005, case group included 32677 CRS patients (including 544 with surgery in case 1 group and 32133 without surgery in case 2 group), and control group included 98031 subjects without CRS which were matching by PSM method on all baseline characteristics. All subjects were followed up from January 2006 till December 2013, the risk of cancers were calculated during the period. Conditional logistic regression Analysis of Cancer Risk is used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for case, case 1 and case 2 compared with control group. The difference in cancer risk among case, case 1 and case 2 drew the conclusions of this paper.

RESULTS

The risk of cancers in head and neck (adjusted OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.33-1.75), colon (adjusted OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.09-1.39), liver (adjusted OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.09-1.41), lung (adjusted OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1-1.3), skin (adjusted OR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.05-1.79), breast (adjusted OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.01-1.36), prostate (adjusted OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.54-2.22) and bladder (adjusted OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.17-1.48) were statistical significantly higher in CRS patients than non-CRS group. Compared with CRS patients without surgery, risk of cancers in head and neck, colon, liver, lung, skin, breast, and prostate were higher in CRS patients receiving surgery.

CONCLUSION

Cancer risk in CRS patients is significant high than non-CRS patients, especially in head and neck, breast, lung, bladder, colorectal, liver, prostate, and skin cancers. Surgical interventions in CRS patients could not decrease cancer risk in CRS patients.

In-vitro evaluation of a ciprofloxacin and azithromycin sinus stent for Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by persistent inflammation and bacterial infection. Ciprofloxacin and azithromycin are commonly prescribed antibiotics for CRS, but the ability to provide targeted release in the sinuses could mitigate side effects and improve drug concentrations at the infected site. This study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the novel ciprofloxacin-azithromycin sinus stent (CASS) in vitro.

METHODS

The CASS was created by coating ciprofloxacin (hydrophilic, inner layer) and azithromycin (hydrophobic, outer layer) onto a biodegradable poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) stent. In-vitro evaluation included: (1) assessment of drug-coating stability within the stent using scanning electron microscopy (SEM); (2) determination of ciprofloxacin and azithromycin release kinetics; and (3) assessment of anti-biofilm activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

RESULTS

The ciprofloxacin nanoparticle suspension in the inner layer was confirmed by zeta potential. Both ciprofloxacin (60 µg) and azithromycin (3 mg) were uniformly coated on the surface of the PLLA stents. The CASS showed ciprofloxacin/azithromycin sustained release patterns, with 80.55 ± 11.61% of ciprofloxacin and 93.85 ± 6.9% of azithromycin released by 28 days. The CASS also significantly reduced P aeruginosa biofilm mass compared with bare stents and controls (relative optical density units at 590-nm optical density: CASS, 0.037 ± 0.006; bare stent, 0.911 ± 0.015; control, 1.000 ± 0.000; p < 0.001; n = 3).

CONCLUSION

The CASS maintains a uniform coating and sustained delivery of ciprofloxacin and azithromycin, providing anti-biofilm activities against P aeruginosa. Further studies evaluating the efficacy of CASS in a preclinical model are planned.

Arginase Isoform Expression in Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Nitric oxide (NO) has emerged as an important regulator of upper airway inflammation, mainly as part of the local naso-sinusal defense mechanisms. Increased arginase activity can reduce NO levels by decreasing the availability of its precursor, L-arginine. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has been associated with low levels of nasal nitric oxide (nNO). Thus, the present study investigates the activity of arginase I (ARG1) and II (ARG2) in CRS and its possible involvement in the pathogenesis of this disease. Under endoscopic view, tissue samples of pathologic (n = 36) and normal (n = 29) rhinosinusal mucosa were collected. Arginase I and II mRNA levels were measured using real-time PCR. Our results showed low arginase I activity in all samples. The levels of ARG2 were significantly higher in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis compared to the control group (fold regulation (FR) 2.22 ± 0.42 vs. 1.31 ± 0.21, p = 0.016). Increased ARG2 expression was found in patients with CRS without nasal polyposis (FR 3.14 ± 1.16 vs. 1.31 ± 0.21, p = 0.0175), in non-allergic CRS (FR 2.55 ± 0.52 vs. 1.31 ± 0.21, p = 0.005), and non-asthmatic CRS (FR 2.42 ± 0.57 vs. 1.31 ± 0.21, p = 0.028). These findings suggest that the upregulation of ARG2 may play a role in the pathology of a distinctive phenotype of CRS.

Olfactory cleft and sinus opacification differentially impact olfaction in chronic rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVES

Prior studies have indicated that olfactory cleft (OC) opacification correlates with olfaction in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, the results have been unclear in patients without polyps. The purpose of this study was to further explore the relationship between OC opacification, sinus opacification, and olfactory function in patients with CRS.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-eight patients with CRS were prospectively enrolled across five institutions. Olfactory function was evaluated using the Sniffin' Sticks tests (Burghardt, Wedel, Germany) and the 17-item Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD-NS). Computed tomography (CT) scans for each patient were acquired and Lund-Mackay scores recorded. Opacification of the OC was determined using OsiriX MD (Pixmeo, Bernex, Switzerland) and correlated with olfaction scores.

RESULTS

A total of 148 CRS patients, 73 CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and 75 CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), as well as 30 control subjects were enrolled. Overall OC opacification averaged 63.7% in CRS patients and 47.1% in control subjects (P < 0.001). In the overall cohort, OC opacification significantly correlated with threshold, discrimination, and identification (TDI) (r = -0.520; P < 0.001) and QOD-NS scores (r = 0.374; P < 0.001). CRSwNP patients demonstrated a significant correlation between OC opacification and TDI scores (r = -0.464; P < 0.001) but not the CRSsNP group (r = -0.143; P = 0.229). Lund-Mackay score correlated with TDI in both the CRSsNP (r = -0.300; P = 0.010) and CRSwNP (r = -0.271; P = 0.019) groups.

CONCLUSION

CT opacification is associated with olfactory dysfunction differentially based on nasal polyp status. Smell loss in CRSwNP correlated with both OC opacification and Lund-Mackay score, whereas CRSsNP correlated only with Lund-Mackay score, indicating different relationships between olfactory function and local inflammatory processes in these disorders.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2 Laryngoscope, 130:2311-2318, 2020.

Establishing Urinary Leukotriene E4 as a Diagnostic Biomarker for Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Comorbid Asthma and Atopy

OBJECTIVE

While urinary leukotriene E₄ (uLTE₄) is a validated biomarker for the cysteinyl leukotriene pathway, which is central to the pathophysiology of asthma, atopy, and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), the contributions of comorbid asthma and atopy to uLTE₄ levels in various CRS subtypes have not been previously characterized. We sought to (1) identify reference values for uLTE₄ in subjects with and without CRS and (2) determine how the presence of comorbid atopy and asthma affects uLTE₄ levels in CRS.

SETTING

Tertiary referral medical center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A prospective case-control study was conducted to compare uLTE₄ levels between patients with CRS and healthy controls. Urinary LTE₄ levels were measured by enzyme immunoassay and were adjusted for urinary creatinine concentrations (pg/mg Cr). Patients with CRS were stratified by the clinical comorbidities to determine normative uLTE₄ values for patients with CRS with and without comorbid asthma or atopy.

RESULTS

A total of 153 patients (mean age, 47.3; 47.1% female) were included in the study. Patients with CRS demonstrated significantly higher concentrations of uLTE₄ than healthy controls (1652 vs 1065 pg/mg Cr, P = .032). Within the group of patients with CRS, comorbid asthma also individually correlated with elevated uLTE₄ levels (1597 pg/mg Cr, P = .0098). Patients with CRS who did not have comorbid allergy and asthma, in contrast, did not have statistically higher uLTE₄ levels than healthy controls (1142 pg/mg Cr, P = .61).

CONCLUSION

Urinary LTE₄ serves as a noninvasive measure of the inflammatory state in CRS. Comorbid asthma and atopy contribute to elevated uLTE₄ levels in CRS.

Correlation Between HMGB1 and TLR4 Expression in Sinonasal Mucosa in Patients With Chronic Rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVES

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is one of the most common inflammations in the upper airway. Despite the wide prevalence of CRS, the pathogenesis of this disease is poorly understood. Several components of the innate immune system may play a significant role in CRS, including Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), TLR9, and high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1). This study was conducted to determine the expression of TLR4, TLR9, HMGB1, and pNFκ-B p65 in paraffin-embedded blocks of patients with CRS with nasal polyps compared with those of the control group.

METHODS

Twenty-six formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples from patients with confirmed CRS and 26 patients undergoing septoplasty due to anatomic variations and no other inflammatory nasal diseases as the control group were assessed. Expression patterns of HMGB1, TLR9, TLR4, and pNFκ-B p65 genes were examined using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (Real-Time qRT-PCR). Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS and analyzed using unpaired 2-tailed t tests or 1-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Real-time PCR showed that the expression level of HMGB1 messenger RNA was significantly increased in the tissues of patients with CRS compared with controls (P < .05). The other 3 genes were also upregulated in the patients, but were not significant compared with control. Analysis of the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) revealed a significant positive correlation between HMGB1 and TLR4 (r = 0.79, P < .05) in patients and negative correlation between TLR4 and NfκB in the control group (r = 0.94; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Both HMGB1 and TLR4 are increased in the paranasal sinus mucosa of patients with CRS. These results suggest a possible contribution of HMGB1 and its internal receptor (TLR4) in the pathophysiology of CRS.

Role of Obesity in Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Obesity is a major public health problem associated with various diseases. Improving obesity control and achieving greater patient satisfaction are critical unmet needs. Various otorhinolaryngologic diseases can have negative effects on quality of life or actual health status depending on their type. Over the past decade, the relationship between obesity and otorhinolaryngologic conditions has been investigated. The purpose of this review was to discuss the relationship between obesity and otorhinolaryngological diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS

This is a narrative review on the current state of incidence, effects, and associated mechanisms between obesity and otorhinolaryngologic diseases. In various otologic diseases, otitis media (OM) and hearing loss (HL) are associated with obesity. In rhinologic parts, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) were significantly associated with obesity. Most of these diseases are reported to have higher susceptibility and severity as body mass index (BMI) increases. However, the incidence of head and neck cancer (HNC) was inversely associated with obesity, especially central adiposity. The relevance of obesity in laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPR) and allergic rhinitis (AR) has yet to be clarified, and this remains controversial. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of incidence, effects, and associated mechanisms between obesity and otorhinolaryngologic diseases. Various otorhinolaryngological diseases are related to obesity. As obesity can be a negative risk factor in these otorhinolaryngologic diseases, early diagnosis and treatment of these diseases in obese patients will be critical.

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase-delta could be a biomarker for eosinophilic nasal polyps

Nasal polyps (NP) cause diverse clinical symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Chronic inflammation of sinonasal mucosa is known to be crucial in NP formation. We aimed to define the implications of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-δ in nasal inflammation associated with NP by analyzing NP tissue obtained from CRS patients. Results showed that expression of p110δ, a regulatory subunit of PI3K-δ, in NP tissue was increased compared to control tissue. Increased p110δ expression was closely correlated with more severe CRS features. Interestingly, p110δ expression was increased in eosinophilic NP, which are closely related to more complicated clinical courses of the disease. Furthermore, CRS patients possessing NP with higher p110δ expression displayed more eosinophils in NP tissue and blood, higher levels of IL-5 in NP tissue, and more severe features of the disease. Therefore, PI3K-δ may contribute to the formation of NP, especially eosinophilic NP associated with more severe clinical presentations and radiological features.

A synthetic glycosaminoglycan reduces sinonasal inflammation in a murine model of chronic rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is characterized by sustained mucosal inflammation, impaired mucociliary clearance, loss of cilia and epithelial barrier breakdown, and tissue remodeling. Certain glycosaminoglycans inhibit various inflammatory mediators, suppress bacterial growth, and provide important functions in mucosal tissue repair and mucociliary clearance. Herein, we evaluated the effects of a synthetic glycosaminoglycan, GM-1111, on the clinical signs and inflammatory tissue changes associated with CRS in mice. CRS was generated by repeated intranasal applications of Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) extracts over 4 weeks. Mice were then intranasally administered GM-1111 (600 μg per dose, 5 times a week) or vehicle (phosphate buffered saline, PBS) for an additional 4 weeks while still being given A. fumigatus extracts to maintain a chronic inflammatory environment with acute exacerbations. Clinical signs indicative of sinonasal inflammation were recorded throughout the study. After 9 weeks, whole blood and sinonasal tissues were harvested for hematological, histological, and biochemical examination. The clinical signs, white blood cell counts, tissue markers of sinonasal inflammation, and histological changes caused by A. fumigatus extract administration were compared to the healthy (PBS vehicle) and GM-1111-treated groups (n = 12 per treatment group). Compared to vehicle-treated animals, animals treated with GM-1111 demonstrated significant reductions in clinical signs (p<0.05), degenerative tissue changes, goblet cell hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration (p<0.01), innate immunity- (tlr2, tlr4, myd88, il1b, tnfa, il6, and il12) and adaptive immunity-associated (ccl11, ccl24, ccl5, il4, il5, and il13) cytokine gene expression (p<0.05 to p<0.0001) in sinonasal tissues, and serum IgE levels (p<0.01). Our data suggest that GM-1111 significantly reduces local and systemic effects of CRS-associated sinonasal inflammation.

Gender-specific differences in serum immunoglobulin E levels and prevalence of fungus in sinonasal tissue noted in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

We previously presented that women with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) who elected endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) have a higher symptom burden than men. Causes of these gender-based differences warranted further study.

OBJECTIVES

To study gender differences in another cohort of adult patients with CRS who underwent ESS and to compare key histopathologic and serologic features Methods: Patients with CRS who underwent ESS (from 2011 to 2014) with structured histopathology reports on surgical samples were studied. The 13-item structured histopathology report detailed key metrics of inflammation and the presence of fungal elements. Clinical, 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) score, Lund-Mackay computed tomography (CT) score, serologic (immunoglobulin E [IgE] level, absolute eosinophil count) and histopathologic data were compared between male and female patients by using statistical software.

RESULTS

We studied 130 eligible subjects (mean age, 54.7 years; 49.2% women). Compared with the men, the women had significantly higher preoperative SNOT-22 scores (women, 48.7; men 38.0 [p = 0.004]) but similar CT scores. Serum IgE levels were significantly higher among women versus men (peak, 433.3 versus 190.8 kU/L [p = 0.03]; closest to surgery, 435.0 versus 190.8 kU/L [p = 0.03]). Tissue fungal elements were significantly more prevalent in women versus men (19.0 versus 5.2%; p = 0.02). Up to this point, the analysis was agnostic of clinical details of the subjects. Further analysis was conducted regarding clinical features. Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) was found significantly more commonly in the female versus male patients (21.9 versus 9.1%; p = 0.04). Women versus men had a higher prevalence of migraine (19.4 versus 4.6%; p = 0.01) or any primary headache disorders (23.0 versus 6.2%; p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Women who underwent ESS for CRS had higher SNOT-22 symptom burden. Worsened symptomatology may be secondary to a higher prevalence of primary headache disorders in women. However, surgeons should also be aware that female patients with CRS who seek ESS may have a higher prevalence of severe disease endotypes (more tissue fungal elements, elevated serum IgE levels) and phenotypes.

Endotypes of Chronic Rhinosinusitis Across Ancestry and Geographic Regions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Preliminary studies have suggested differences in endotypes of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) across ancestry/ethnic groups. Eosinophilic CRS (ECRS) is the predominant subtype for Western/European ancestry CRS patients and non-eosinophilic CRS (nECRS) for Asian patients. This review aims to re-analyze CRS endotypes across ancestry populations using one consistent criteria to existing data.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although tissue eosinophilia is the most commonly used criterion for ECRS, various cut-off points are suggested. Surrogate markers have been extensively studied. Sixty-six cohorts with study criteria were included with a total of 8557 patients. Raw data from 11 studies 544 patients were re-analyzed using number of tissue eosinophils. At lower cut-off values of ≥ 5 and ≥ 10 cells/HPF, most patients of Asian and Western/European ancestry were classified as ECRS without difference. In contrast, at cut-off points of ≥ 70 and ≥ 120 cells/HPF, the majority of both groups became reclassified as nECRS. After applying one consistent criteria to existing data, differences across ancestry and geographic populations in endotypes of CRS were no longer evident.