Physical Findings in Allergy

Paranasal sinus disease could be a reason for unsuccessful immunotherapy of inhalant allergy in children

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of paranasal sinuses condition assessed in computed tomography on inhalant allergen desensitization effects.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Retrospective analysis of medical records of children undergoing allergen immunotherapy in outpatient otolaryngology clinic of University Children Hospital in Lublin was performed. Control group consisted of children who underwent allergen immunotherapy and obtained satisfying effects; study group consisted of children who did not experience significant improvement after desensitization therapy.

RESULTS

Computed tomography of nose cavity and paranasal sinuses exposed numerous pathologic changes affecting both, control and study group. Blockage of ostiomeatal complex was twice more common in children who did not respond adequately to desensitization therapy. In our study group, radiological findings suggesting rhinosinusitis were found in 73% of patients, while retention cysts in maxillary sinuses were discovered in 27% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathological findings in paranasal sinuses in computed tomography may arise from uncontrolled allergic rhinitis. If chirurgical management is indicated, allergen immunotherapy should be postponed until total recovery from operational procedure and repeated.

AAOA allergy primer: history and physical examination

BACKGROUND

Allergic disease is very common in the general population and makes a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergic disease manifests throughout the body, but many signs and symptoms of inhalant allergy are centered in the head and neck region.

METHODS

A thorough yet focused history of allergic symptoms and potential physical examination findings of inhalant allergy are described.

RESULTS

History should include types and timing of symptoms, environmental and occupational exposures, family history, associated diseases, and prior treatment, if any. Physical examination should include the skin and structures of the head and neck region. Nasal endoscopy can be helpful in visualization of nasal polyps.

CONCLUSION

Many times, history alone can serve to make the diagnosis, but physical examination also demonstrates specific findings that confirm the practitioner's presumptive diagnosis of allergic disease. However, should medical treatment fail or the diagnosis be in doubt, further diagnostic investigation with allergy testing should be pursued.