Management of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and coexisting asthma: A systematic review

Psychometric Validation and Meaningful Change Thresholds of the New Nasal Polyposis Symptom Diary

OBJECTIVES

The Nasal Polyposis Symptom Diary (NPSD) is a novel and short patient-reported outcome (PRO) tool specifically developed to assess important and relevant symptoms reported by patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP). We evaluated the psychometric properties of 4 predefined NPSD-derived scores intended to support symptom-improvement assessments of investigational therapies for inclusion in product labeling.

METHODS

Five hundred eighteen patients with severe CRSwNP from a Phase III clinical trial (NCT03401229) completed the NPSD, comprising 11 items: 8 symptom-specific, 2 symptom-impact, and 1 optional medication-compliance. The psychometric characteristics of 3 single-item symptom scores (Nasal Blockage Score [NBS], Nasal Congestion Score [NCS], and Difficulty with Sense of Smell Score [DSS]) and a Total Symptom Score (TSS, summary of the 8 symptom-specific items) were evaluated for reliability, validity, and ability to detect change. Within-patient meaningful change thresholds (MCTs) were established using anchor- and distribution-based methods. Comparative PROs included the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGI-S).

RESULTS

The TSS exhibited strong internal consistency (Cronbach α = .88) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient >.80). Correlation between the TSS and SNOT-22 total score indicated good convergent validity (r = .70). All 4 NPSD scores demonstrated known-groups validity (significant differences among subgroups of patients with predetermined disease severity levels based on PGI-S categories) and were sensitive to detect change in patients' clinical status (significant differences among subgroups of patients with reported changes between 2 time-points in PGI-S and Patient Global Impression of Change scores). MCTs for improvement were established at 1.0 point for NBS, NCS, and DSS, and 4.0 points for TSS.

CONCLUSION

These findings support the reliability, validity, and suitability of the 4 NPSD-derived scores for evaluating treatment effect on CRSwNP symptoms and their use in clinical trials with predetermined MCTs for improvement.

Management paradigms for chronic rhinosinusitis in individuals with asthma: An evidence-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant morbidity associated with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in individuals with asthma (CRSwA), there is a paucity of codified, evidence-based management strategies for CRS in this population.

METHODS

Using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Review Databases, a systematic review was performed covering management strategies for CRSwA. A total of 5903 articles were screened, and 70 were included for full-text analysis. After application of exclusion criteria, 53 articles comprised the qualitative synthesis. The level of evidence was graded and benefit-harm assessments, as well as value judgment and recommendations, were provided RESULTS: Strong evidence confirms the benefit of oral and topical medications on sinonasal-specific outcomes in individuals with CRSwA; there is low-grade evidence demonstrating that these agents improve lung function and/or asthma control. Moderate to strong evidence suggests that endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) improves both sinonasal- and asthma-specific quality of life. Although there is insufficient to low evidence to indicate that ESS improves pulmonary function in this population, data indicate a positive impact of this intervention on asthma control. Biologic medications strongly improve both subjective and objective sinonasal- and asthma-specific outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Evidence supports managing CRS in individuals with CRSwA in a stepwise fashion, starting with traditional nonbiologic oral and topical medication, and escalating to second-line treatments, such as ESS and biologics. Optimal treatment of individuals who have CRSwA often requires concurrent, directed management of asthma, as not all CRS interventions impact asthma status.

Economics of Medical and Surgical Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps: A Contemporary Review

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is a chronic inflammatory condition with significant patient morbidity and associated healthcare costs. While the economic burden of CRS overall has been previously described, the economic impact of CRSwNP has received less attention. Patients with CRSwNP have higher disease burden and healthcare resource utilization than those with CRS without nasal polyposis. Rapid evolution of medical management in recent years with the use of targeted biologics warrants further investigation into the economic burden of CRSwNP.

OBJECTIVE

Provide an updated review of the literature on the economic impact of CRSwNP.

METHODS

A literature review.

RESULTS

Research shows that patients with CRSwNP have higher direct costs and usage of ambulatory services compared to matched non-CRS controls. Patients undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) incur roughly $13,000 in costs which is particularly relevant given the rate of disease recidivism and need for revision surgery associated with CRSwNP. Disease burden additionally leads to indirect costs through loss of wages and productivity due to work absenteeism and presenteeism, with estimates of up to roughly $10,000 lost in mean annual productivity cost in refractory CRSwNP. Several studies have shown FESS to be more cost-effective in intermediate and long-term management than medical therapy with biologics, despite similar long-term outcomes with respect to quality-of-life metrics.

CONCLUSION

CRSwNP is a chronic condition with high recurrence rates making it a challenge to manage over time. Current research suggests that FESS is more cost-effective than medical management, including use of newer biologics. Further investigation into both direct and indirect costs associated with medical management is warranted to perform accurate cost-effectiveness analyses and allow for the best allocation of limited healthcare resources.

The burden of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and its relation to asthma in Finland

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is commonly associated with asthma. Treatment of CRSwNP includes intranasal and systemic corticosteroids, with non‐responsive patients commonly considered for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). This nationwide register‐based study evaluated the incidence, prevalence, and treatment burden of CRSwNP in Finland, and their association with the presence and severity of comorbid asthma.

Methods

Electronic health records of patients diagnosed with CRSwNP between 1.1.2012 and 31.12.2018 in Finnish specialty and primary care were included in the study. The patients were divided into subgroups based on presence, severity, and control of asthma: no asthma, mild to moderate asthma, severe controlled asthma, and severe uncontrolled asthma. A mean cumulative count of ESS was calculated over time per subgroup.

Results

The prevalence of CRSwNP increased from 602.2 to 856.7 patients per 100,000 population between years 2012 and 2019 (p < 0.001). A total of 18,563 patients (59.9% male) had incident CRSwNP between 2012 and 2019, with 27% having asthma, 6% having severe asthma, and 1.5% having severe uncontrolled asthma. In the no asthma, severe controlled asthma, and severe uncontrolled asthma subgroups, systemic corticosteroids were used by 54.1%, 94.9% and 99.3% (p < 0.001), respectively, while the ESS count 3 years post diagnosis was 0.49, 0.68 and 0.80, respectively.

Conclusions

The prevalence of CRSwNP showed a significant increase in the recent decade in Finland. Comorbid asthma, and in particular severe asthma, increased the probability of receiving systemic corticosteroids and undergoing ESS. Thus, improved management of CRSwNP in patients with comorbid asthma is urgently needed.

[Features of adherence to treatment of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps]

Chronic polypous rhinosinusitis (CPR) is characterized by refractory to drug therapy and a high potential for recurrence after surgical treatment. One of the important factors limiting the effectiveness of drug therapy of CPR, in particular intranasal glucocorticosteroids (inGCSs), is the insufficient level of adherence to treatment of patients with CPR.

OBJECTIVE

Generalization of data on the significance and ways to increase adherence to treatment of patients with CPR.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Materials of scientific publications included in the Cochrane Library, Russian Science Citation Index, MEDLINE, PubMed information bases were used as a data source. The material was selected based on the following keywords: "chronic rhinosinusitis", "nasal polyps", "intranasal glucocorticosteroids", "adherence to treatment".

RESULTS

Despite the fact that inGCSs are one of the main pathogenetically justified methods of treating CPR, their use is limited by many factors, one of which is the level of patient compliance with the treatment regimen.

CONCLUSION

Improving adherence to treatment is one of the important reserves for increasing the effectiveness of drug therapy for chronic polypous rhinosinusitis.

Asthma Across the Ages: Adults

Asthma is a common disease affecting approximately 300 million people worldwide, across all age ranges. Despite advances in asthma outcomes of the last few decades, there remains room for improvement in asthma management and for patient outcomes, particularly in older patients. The heterogeneity of asthma is now well recognized, and is known to complicate response to treatment and patient behavior and impact health outcomes. Asthma and its heterogeneity change according to age. Asthma affects people differently across the life span. In adults, prevalence is highest among those in middle age; however, mortality is greater in the older age group. In this clinical commentary, we describe how age impacts asthma prevalence and incidence, outcomes, disease expression, and approach to management in adulthood and in older patients.

[Management strategies for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in adults]

INTRODUCTION

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is one of the categories of chronic rhinosinusitis and is defined by the presence of bilateral polyps. It is frequently associated with other conditions (asthma, atopy, aspirin intolerance), which worsen its prognosis.

STATE OF ART

The pathophysiology of CRSwNP is still poorly understood. The genesis of polyps is thought to be based on an initial epithelial lesion caused by environmental factors in the context of self-maintained chronic local inflammation. Multiple local and general factors can be involved in this inflammation, which is mainly of Th2 type in Europe. Abnormalities of the epithelial barrier and the immune system (eosinophilia, cytokines, T and B lymphocytes), genetic factors and pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, have been incriminated. The treatment of CRSwNP is mainly based on the application of local corticosteroids. Surgery remains an important part of patient management where CRSwNP becomes resistant to topical therapy. The management of CRSwNP may be at a turning point thanks to the arrival of biological therapies (anti-IgE, anti-IL-5, anti-IL-4/IL-13) the initial results of which are promising.

PERSPECTIVES/CONCLUSIONS

With the new concept of endotypes, current avenues of research are moving towards a better understanding of the inflammatory mechanisms of CRSwNP. Immunotherapy appears to be a promising future for the treatment of CRSwNP.

Distinct type 2-high inflammation associated molecular signatures of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps with comorbid asthma

Background

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and comorbid asthma have more severe disease and are difficult to treat. However, the molecular endotypes associated with CRSwNP with comorbid asthma (CRSwNP + AS) are not clear. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of type 2 inflammation and the molecular signatures associated with CRSwNP + AS.

Methods

A total of 195 subjects; including 65 CRSwNP + AS patients, 99 CRSwNP-alone patients, and 31 healthy control subjects; were enrolled in the study. Nasal tissues from patients with CRSwNP + AS, CRSwNP-alone and control subjects were assessed for infiltration of inflammatory cells and concentrations of total IgE. Whole-transcriptome sequencing was performed and differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their associated pathways were analyzed. The correlations between type 2 cytokines and local eosinophils, tissue IgE, and transcriptome signatures were evaluated.

Results

Significantly higher local eosinophil infiltration and higher levels of total IgE were found in nasal tissues from CRSwNP + AS patients than in nasal tissues from CRSwNP-alone patients. Furthermore, atopy and recurrence were significantly more frequent in patients with CRSwNP + AS than in patients with CRSwNP-alone (62.5% vs 28.6% and 66.7% vs 26.9%, respectively). RNA sequencing analysis identified 1988 common DE-mRNAs, and 176 common DE-lncRNAs shared by CRSwNP + AS versus control and CRSwNP-alone versus control. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) identified LINC01146 as hub lncRNA dysregulated in both subtypes of CRSwNP. Overall, 968 DE-mRNAs and 312 DE-lncRNAs were identified between CRSwNP + AS and CRSwNP-alone. Both pathway enrichment analysis and WGCNA indicated that the phenotypic traits of CRSwNP + AS were mainly associated with higher activities of arachidonic acid metabolism, type 2 cytokines related pathway and fibrinolysis pathway, and lower activity of IL-17 signalling pathway. Furthermore, the expression of type 2 cytokines; IL5 and IL13, was positively correlated with local eosinophil infiltration, tissue IgE level, and the expression of DE-mRNAs that related to arachidonic acid metabolism. Moreover, WGCNA identified HK3-006 as hub lncRNA in yellow module that most positively correlated with phenotypic traits of CRSwNP + AS.

Conclusions

Patients with CRSwNP + AS have distinct type 2-high inflammation-associated molecular signatures in nasal tissues compared to patients with CRSwNP-alone.

Chinese Society of Allergy and Chinese Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Guideline for Chronic Rhinosinusitis

The current document is based on a consensus reached by a panel of experts from the Chinese Society of Allergy and the Chinese Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rhinology Group. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) affects approximately 8% of Chinese adults. The inflammatory and remodeling mechanisms of CRS in the Chinese population differ from those observed in the populations of European descent. Recently, precision medicine has been used to treat inflammation by targeting key biomarkers that are involved in the process. However, there are no CRS guidelines or a consensus available from China that can be shared with the international academia. The guidelines presented in this paper cover the epidemiology, economic burden, genetics and epigenetics, mechanisms, phenotypes and endotypes, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, management, and the current status of CRS in China. These guidelines-with a focus on China-will improve the abilities of clinical and medical staff during the treatment of CRS. Additionally, they will help international agencies in improving the verification of CRS endotypes, mapping of eosinophilic shifts, the identification of suitable biomarkers for endotyping, and predicting responses to therapies. In conclusion, these guidelines will help select therapies, such as pharmacotherapy, surgical approaches and innovative biotherapeutics, which are tailored to each of the individual CRS endotypes.

Long-term treatment with clarithromycin and carbocisteine improves lung function in chronic cough patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

PURPOSE

Chronic cough is a common complaint. Because the pathophysiology of chronic cough is complicated, the management of chronic cough is challenging. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has examined the effect of macrolide antibiotics in chronic cough patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. The purpose of this study is to determine the changes in lung function for chronic cough patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who are treated by clarithromycin and carbocisteine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two chronic cough patients with chronic rhinosinusitis were recruited. Patients using inhaled corticosteroids and/or a bronchodilator, asthmatic patients, and patients with abnormal findings on auscultation and/or chest X-ray examination were excluded from this study. The patients received low-dose clarithromycin treatment for 3 months. Both before and after the treatment, a computed tomography (CT) scan of the paranasal sinuses, lung function test, peripheral blood test, and sino-nasal outcome test (SNOT-20) were applied.

RESULTS

Both the lung function and Lund-MacKay CT scores were improved by the long-duration therapy with macrolide antibiotics. The change in obstructive pulmonary function and the improvement of the CT score in each subject were significantly correlated. SNOT scores also improved after the treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The macrolide antibiotics treatment has beneficial effects on lung function in non-asthmatic chronic cough patients with normal chest X-ray findings. The improvement of chronic rhinosinusitis may have some role in the lung condition. Upper respiratory tract examination and treatment may be useful for the management of chronic cough.

Asthma and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Diagnosis and Medical Management

Asthma is a prevalent inflammatory condition of the lower airways characterized by variable and recurring symptoms, reversible airflow obstruction, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR). Symptomatically, these patients may demonstrate wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. This disease is a substantial burden to a growing population worldwide that currently exceeds 300 million individuals. This is a condition that is frequently encountered, but often overlooked in the field of otolaryngology. In asthma, comorbid conditions are routinely present and contribute to respiratory symptoms, decreased quality of life, and poorer asthma control. It is associated with otolaryngic diseases of the upper airways including allergic rhinitis (AR) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). These conditions have been linked epidemiologically and pathophysiologically. Presently, they are considered in the context of the unified airway theory, which describes the upper and lower airways as a single functional unit. Thus, it is important for otolaryngologists to understand asthma and its complex relationships to comorbid diseases, in order to provide comprehensive care to these patients. In this article, we review key elements necessary for understanding the evaluation and management of asthma and its interrelatedness to CRS.

Cost burden and resource utilization in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Establish treatment patterns and economic burden in US patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) versus without chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Determine comparative costs of subgroups with high clinical burden.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational, retrospective, case-control study.

METHODS

This study matched patients with CRSwNP to patients without CRS (1:1) using the Truven Health MarketScan US claims database. Categorical and continuous variables were compared using McNemar test and paired t test (normal distribution) or Wilcoxon signed rank tests (non-normal distribution). Within subgroups, χ² and Wilcoxon or t tests were used (normal distribution).

RESULTS

There were 10,841 patients with CRSwNP and 10,841 patients without CRS included. Mean age in the CRSwNP cohort was 45.8 years; 56.2% were male. During follow-up, patients with CRSwNP had an increased diagnosis of asthma versus patients without CRS (20.8% vs. 8.1%, respectively; P < .001). Annual incremental costs were $11,507 higher for patients with CRSwNP versus those without CRS. Costs were higher in subgroups of patients with CRSwNP undergoing functional endoscopy sinus surgery (FESS), with a comorbid diagnosis of asthma, receiving oral corticosteroids, or macrolides versus the overall CRSwNP group. Patients with CRSwNP undergoing FESS had the highest costs of the four subgroups ($26,724, $22,456, $20,695, and $20,990, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Annual incremental costs were higher among patients with CRSwNP versus without CRS. Patients with CRSwNP with high clinical burden had higher overall costs than CRSwNP patients without.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 129:1969-1975, 2019.

Current opinions for the management of asthma associated with ear, nose and throat comorbidities

Ear, nose and throat (ENT) comorbidities are common in patients with asthma and are frequently associated with poorer asthma outcomes. All these comorbidities are "treatable traits" in asthma. Identification and management of these disorders may spare medication usage and contribute to improved asthma control and quality of life, and a decrease in exacerbation rates.This review summarises recent data about the prevalence, clinical impact and treatment effects of ENT comorbidities in asthma including allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, obstructive sleep apnoea and vocal cord dysfunction.Many of these comorbidities are possible to be managed by the pulmonologist, but the collaboration with the ENT specialist is essential for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis or vocal cord dysfunction. Further rigorous research is needed to study the efficacy of comorbidity treatment to improve asthma outcomes, in particular with the development of biotherapies in severe asthma that can also be beneficial in some ENT diseases.

Factors reducing omalizumab response in severe asthma

BACKGROUND

Despite adding Omalizumab to conventional therapy, several severe asthmatics still show poor disease control. We investigated the factors that may affect a reduced Omalizumab response in a large population of severe asthmatics.

METHODS

340 patients were retrospectively evaluated. FEV₁%, FVC%, Asthma Control Test (ACT), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO), possible step-downs/step-ups of concomitant therapies, exacerbations, disease control levels, ICS doses and SABA use, observed at the end of treatment, were considered as a response to Omalizumab.

RESULTS

Age was an independent risk factor for a reduced response concerning FEV₁%, FVC%, ACT and for a lower asthma control. Obesity (vs normal weight) was a determinant condition for exacerbations (OR:3.114[1.509-6.424], p = 0.002), for a disease partial/no control (OR:2.665[1.064-6.680], p = 0.036), for excessive SABA use (OR:4.448[1.837-10.768], p = 0.002) and for an unchanged/increased level of concomitant asthma medications. Furthermore, obesity also reduced the response in FEV₁ (β = -6.981,p = 0.04), FVC (β = -11.689,p = 0.014) and ACT (β = -2.585, p = 0.027) and was associated with a higher FENO level (β = 49.045,p = 0.040). Having at least one comorbidity was a risk factor for exacerbations (OR:1.383[1.128-1.697], p = 0.008) and for an ACT <20 (OR:2.410[1.071-3.690], p = 0.008). Specifically, chronic heart disease was associated with both a lower ACT and FVC% whereas gastroesophageal reflux with a partial/no asthma control. Nasal polyps were a predisposing factor leading both to exacerbations and to the use of higher inhaled corticosteroids doses. Moreover, smoking habits, pollen or dog/cat dander co-sensitizations may negatively influence Omalizumab response.

CONCLUSION

Age, obesity, comorbidities, smoking habits, nasal polyps, allergic poly-sensitization might reduce Omalizumab effectiveness independently to other asthma-influencing factors.

Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease

Patients with severe asthma and concomitant chronic rhinosinusitis often have severe, refractory upper and lower airway inflammation. This inflammation has been proposed to be similar throughout the upper and lower airways leading to the unified airways concept. This article reviews chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyps, and the subgroup with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, while focusing on the relationship with asthma. Additionally, diagnosis and treatment with current and newer therapies are discussed.

Clinical Phenotypes of Nasal Polyps and Comorbid Asthma Based on Cluster Analysis of Disease History

BACKGROUND

Nasal polyps and comorbid asthma (NPcA) is a common united airway disease and is highly heterogeneous with respect to clinical, physiologic, and pathologic parameters. The clinical phenotypes of NPcA are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to explore clinical phenotypes in patients with NPcA.

METHODS

Patients first diagnosed with NPcA were recruited from Rhinological Clinics and Respiratory Clinics. We clustered patients with NPcA based on parameters regarding natural courses and demographic characteristics. Patients were also evaluated with respect to clinical, functional, and inflammatory parameters in both upper and lower airways.

RESULTS

Clustering of 110 cases resulted in 3 clusters: cluster 1 (n = 16, 14.55%, atopic NPcA) was predominantly atopic patients with child-onset airway symptoms, intermediate disease duration, history of family asthma, better lung function, and less severe asthma; cluster 2 (n = 32, 29.09%, smoking NPcA) was characterized by more smokers, short disease duration, adult-onset airway symptoms, less atopy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug sensitivity, prior sinus surgery history, eosinophilic airway phenotypes, worse lung function, and severe computed tomography appearance; and cluster 3 (n = 62, 56.36%, older NPcA) consisted mostly of older patients with long disease duration, adult-onset airway symptoms, less atopy, more noneosinophilic airway phenotypes, and prior sinus surgery history.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with NPcA with 3 distinct natural courses had different inflammatory status and disease severity. Determining the natural course of a patient might help clinicians predict the clinical aspects of NPcA and contribute to phenotype-guided management approaches in the future.

Pulmonary Function of Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis and the Impact of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare pulmonary function tests (PFTs) among control subjects and patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and to investigate the outcomes of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) on PFTs among patients with CRS.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective study conducted from June 2015 to June 2016.

SETTING

Tertiary referral hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The study is based on 2 groups: adult control subjects (group 1, n = 25) and adult patients with medically resistant CRS (group 2, n = 25). PFTs were used to compare the lower airway condition between the groups. Another comparison in PFTs was made among patients with CRS at 1 week preoperatively and 1 month postoperatively to evaluate the effectiveness of ESS.

RESULTS

In group 1, all subjects had an FEV1/FVC ratio ≥80% (forced expiratory volume in 1 second / forced vital capacity) with a mean of 0.84 ± 0.07, as compared with group 2, from 61% to 70% for 5 (20%) patients, 71% to 79% for 10 (40%), and ≥80% for 10 (40%). FEV1/FVC was significantly lower in group 2 than group 1 (P = .04). At 1 month postoperatively, the FEV1/FVC values of group 2 was from 61% to 70% for 2 (8%) patients, 71% to 79% for 13 (52%), and ≥80% for 10 (40%). The mean FEV1/FVC was 0.9 ± 0.50, and these values were significantly higher (P = .02) when compared with preoperative values.

CONCLUSION

This study provides objective evidence that patients with CRS may have nonmanifest lower airway affection when compared with control subjects and that ESS is efficacious in the improvement of such affection.

The impact of asthma on the cost effectiveness of surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

The objective of this work was to evaluate the impact of asthma on the cost-effectiveness profile of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) compared to medical therapy for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

METHODS

The study design consisted of a cohort-style Markov decision-tree cost utility analysis with a 35-year time horizon. Matched cohorts of CRSwNP patients with (n = 95) and without (n = 95) asthma who underwent ESS were compared with cohorts of patients from the national Medical Expenditures Survey Panel (MEPS) database who underwent medical management for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Baseline, 1-year, and 2-year health utility values were calculated from responses to the EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) instrument in both cohorts. The primary outcome measure was the incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) for each cohort.

RESULTS

The reference cases for CRSwNP patients with and without asthma yielded ICERs for ESS vs medical therapy alone of $12,066 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) and $7,369 per QALY, respectively. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000/QALY, the ICER scatter plots demonstrated 86% and 99% certainty that the ESS strategy was the most cost-effective option for CRSwNP patients with and without asthma, respectively. ESS was not significantly more cost effective for CRSwNP patients without asthma (p = 0.494).

CONCLUSION

ESS remains cost effective compared to medical therapy for patients both with and without asthma. While the comorbidity of asthma results in an inferior ICER result, it does not result in a statistically significant negative impact on the overall cost effectiveness of ESS.

Association between Asthma and Chronic Rhinosinusitis Severity in the Context of Asthma Control

Objective Comorbid asthma is associated with decreased quality of life (QOL) in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). It is unclear whether this association is independent of the patients' clinical asthma status. We therefore sought to determine if asthma is associated with lower QOL in CRS, independent of asthma control. Study Design Cross-sectional cohort study of 350 patients with CRS. Setting Tertiary academic rhinology clinic. Subjects and Methods In total, 350 participants with CRS were recruited and 28.3% were asthmatic. CRS-specific QOL was measured using the 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22). Asthma control was assessed with the Asthma Control Test (ACT). General health-related QOL was assessed with the EuroQoL 5-dimensional general health-related quality of life survey visual analog scale (EQ-5D VAS). Associations were sought between SNOT-22 and EQ-5D VAS (dependent variables) and asthma (independent variable), while controlling for ACT. ACT score for patients with CRS without asthma was set at 25 (indicating completely controlled, asymptomatic asthma). Results Comorbid asthma was associated with SNOT-22 (β = 11.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.2-17.3; P < .001) and EQ-5D VAS (β = -6.2; 95% CI, -11.2 to -1.3; P = .014). After controlling for ACT, asthma was no longer associated with SNOT-22 ( P = .147) or EQ-5D VAS ( P = .994). Instead, ACT score was associated with SNOT-22 (β = -2.1; 95% CI, -3.2 to -1.1; P < .001) and EQ-5D VAS (β = 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.0; P < .001). ACT score completely drove the association between asthma and worse QOL. Conclusion Comorbid asthma is not necessarily reflective of decreased QOL in CRS. The association of comorbid asthma with lower QOL in CRS is related to the clinical status (eg, control) of asthma.

The Triple Aim and its implications on the management of chronic rhinosinusitis

INTRODUCTION

Accountable care organizations (ACO) and alternative payment models are a sign of the change in reimbursement from fee-for-service to value-based reimbursement. The focus of health care under ACOs is represented by the Triple Aim: to improve the experience of health care, improve the health of populations, and reduce the per capita costs. Individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) are heavy consumers of health care services. Results of recent studies have indicated that there is the potential for improved outcomes and cost savings from early surgical intervention. Adhering to the principles of the Triple Aim may signal a paradigm shift in regard to timing of intervention for CRS in certain patients.

METHODS

A scoping review was performed to analyze the current literature related to management of CRS and the impact on cost, population health outcomes, and the patient's experience of health care.

RESULTS

A growing body of literature indicates that, in appropriately selected patients, when compared with medical management, endoscopic sinus surgery has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the long-term cost burden of CRS.

CONCLUSION

With the advent of ACOs, a paradigm shift in the treatment of CRS is inevitable to better conform to the goals of the Triple Aim. Future treatment algorithms will need to account for the heterogeneity within CRS and seek to identify appropriate timing and interventions for patients on an individual basis if the value of health care is to be improved.

Montelukast use-a 19-year nationwide drug utilisation study

PURPOSE

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used in asthma and rhinitis treatment. Despite being marketed nearly two decades ago, little is known about its utilisation pattern.

METHODS

Using the Danish National Prescription Registry, we identified subjects filling a montelukast prescription between 1998 and 2017. Using descriptive statistics, we reported the development in incidence, and prevalence, as well as a measure of treatment duration, and concomitant use of asthma- or anti-allergic therapy.

RESULTS

We identified 147,247 individuals filling 1,327,489 montelukast prescriptions. A total of 54,349 users (37%) filled only one montelukast prescription. The prevalence increased from 0.9/1000 persons in 1998 to 3.3/1000 persons in 2016. The rate of new users reached its maximum of 2.1/1000 person-years in 2009. Among new montelukast users, 28% were still users after 1 year. Among all montelukast initiators, 60% filled at least one prescription of short-acting beta-2-agonists (SABA) up to a year prior to montelukast initiation, and 49% filled a prescription of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Only 0.8% (n = 1148) of all individuals initiated montelukast without a redeemed prescription of short- or long-term inhalation therapy, systemic antihistamines, or nasal topical anti-allergic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The usage of montelukast has increased over threefold since its market entry in 1998, mainly driven by an increased number of prevalent users. The majority of individuals who initiated montelukast filled a prescription of SABA up to a year prior to montelukast initiation, whereas almost half filled a prescription of ICS.

Distribution, subtype population, and IgE positivity of mast cells in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) has been categorized into 2 subtypes in the Asian population: eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS; similar to CRSwNP in Western countries) and non-ECRS (characterized by inflammation dominated by T-helper cell type 1). The pathogenesis of CRSwNP and the role of mast cells are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution, phenotypes, and immunoglobulin E (IgE) positivity of mast cells in these 2 subtypes of CRSwNP.

METHODS

We collected nasal tissue from patients with CRSwNP and control subjects. The mRNA for mast cell proteases tryptase and chymase was measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction, and the distribution of each type of protease-positive mast cell was examined using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. IgE distribution on mast cells was determined using double-immunofluorescent staining for IgE and tryptase.

RESULTS

Expression of tryptase mRNA was significantly increased in nasal polyps from patients with the 2 subtypes of CRSwNP compared with controls. Immunohistochemistry showed increased numbers of tryptase-positive mast cells in the epithelium, glands, and submucosa of ECRS polyps, whereas the number of tryptase- and chymase-positive mast cells was increased in the glands and submucosa of non-ECRS polyps. IgE-positive mast cells were abundant in the epithelial, glandular, and submucosal regions of ECRS polyps but few were detected in non-ECRS polyps.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that the distribution, subtype population, and IgE positivity of mast cells is different between ECRS and non-ECRS nasal polyps. Our results suggest a role for IgE-mediated mast cell activation in the pathogenesis of ECRS.

Endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: Clinical outcome and predictive factors of recurrence

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a highly prevalent disease of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus, but its exact etiology is still unclear and remains a difficult-to-treat condition.

HYPOTHESIS

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is an effective treatment for medically recalcitrant CRSwNP. There are independent variables that can predict surgical outcomes in patients with CRSwNP.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate ESS efficacy in CRSwNP treatment and to establish prognostic factors for disease recurrence.

METHODS

Eighty-five patients with CRSwNP submitted to ESS, and a minimum follow-up of 9 months was selected. Patient demographics, occupational organic exposure (e.g., cotton, fuel gas, wood dust) and inorganic dust exposure (e.g., bleach, metals, cement), comorbidities, previous nasal surgeries, pre- and postoperative symptoms, ear, nose and throat examination findings, computed tomography results, and medical and surgical treatment information were collected from medical records. Statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

All rhinologic symptoms improved after surgery, in a statistically significant way, with the best recovery rate for nasal obstruction and the worst for hyposmia. The major and minor complications rates were 1.2 and 15.3%, respectively. Disease recurrence occurred in 31% of the patient, but only 7% required surgical reintervention. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified occupational dust exposure (p = 0.001) and non-immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated asthma (p = 0.012) as independent predictive variables in CRSwNP recurrence, unlike the other tested variables: age, sex, IgE-mediated asthma, allergic rhinitis, smoking habits, nasal polyps endoscopic grade, Lund-Mackay score, and postoperative topical corticoid use. The adjusted logistic model presented a good discriminatory capacity with a receiver operating characteristic area under the curve of 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.73-0.91; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

ESS proved to be an effective treatment in CRSwNP but with a considerable rate of recurrence. These results indicated an important correlation of occupational dust exposure and non-IgE-mediated asthma with disease recurrence.

Asthma quality of life and control after sinus surgery in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) often have comorbid asthma. Prior studies have not examined the impact of CRS or endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) upon asthma quality of life (QOL) and asthma control using validated outcome metrics.

METHODS

Patients with CRS, both with and without polyps, and comorbid asthma completed the Mini Asthma QOL Questionnaire (miniAQLQ) and Asthma Control Test (ACT) at baseline and 6 months postoperatively as part of a multi-institutional, prospective study.

RESULTS

Baseline metrics were available on 86 patients. Patients undergoing ESS reported improved miniAQLQ [0.5 (SD ±1.1), 95% CI: 0.2-0.7; P = 0.002] and ACT scores [1.3 (±4.1), 95% CI: 0.2-2.4; P = 0.025]. Uncontrolled baseline asthma (ACT < 20) was present in 51% of patients undergoing ESS. In uncontrolled patients, ESS resulted in a minimal clinically important difference 57% of the time for miniAQLQ scores (≥0.5 points) and 50% of the time for ACT scores (≥3.0 points). After adjustment with linear regression, baseline miniAQLQ scores were worse in patients with comorbid allergy (P = 0.045) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD; P = 0.015). Adjusted baseline ACT scores were worse in patients with COPD (P = 0.004). Covariates associated with changes in miniAQLQ scores after ESS were pre-operative corticosteroid dependency (P = 0.011) and change in total SNOT-22 score (P = 0.010). Covariate associated with significantly less improvement in ACT scores was obstructive sleep apnea (P = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with CRS often present with uncontrolled asthma, and ESS improves both miniAQLQ and ACT. Approximately half of patients with uncontrolled asthma improve after ESS, yet there are few CRS-specific factors associated with asthma QOL or control or ESS outcomes.

Asthma in ear, nose, and throat primary care patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a common inflammatory disorder associated with asthma. This association is well described in patients with CRSwNP undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS); however, some patients are never referred for surgery, and the frequency of asthma in this group is largely unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of asthma in patients with CRSwNP treated in a primary care (PC) setting who have never been referred for surgery and to compare this with ESS patients.

METHODS

Fifty-seven patients with CRSwNP who had never undergone ESS were prospectively recruited from nine PC ear, nose, and throat clinics in the Copenhagen area. CRSwNP was diagnosed according to the European Position Paper on Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps; severity was assessed by using a visual analog scale. Allergy, lung function, and asthma tests (reversibility to β2-agonist, peak expiratory flow variability, and mannitol challenge) were performed. Findings were compared with our previously published data from patients with CRSwNP referred for surgery.

RESULTS

Asthma was diagnosed in 25 patients (44%) based on respiratory symptoms and a positive asthma test; of these, 12 (48%) had undiagnosed asthma prior to study onset. Furthermore, when using the same methods, we found a lower frequency of asthma in PC patients compared with ESS patients (44% versus 65%, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

A high prevalence of asthma in PC patients with CRSwNP was found. Frequently, asthma was undiagnosed. However, asthma was significantly less prevalent in PC patients compared with patients referred for ESS. The frequent concomitance of asthma, i.e., united airways disease, in PC patients calls for closer collaboration between ear, nose, and throat specialists, and asthma specialists.

Two inflammatory phenotypes of nasal polyps and comorbid asthma

BACKGROUND

Nasal polyps and comorbid asthma (NPCA) is a common united airway disease. However, the inflammatory phenotyes of NPCA are not clear.

OBJECTIVE

To identify inflammatory phenotypes of NPCA.

METHODS

A total of 106 patients diagnosed with NPCA were recruited from rhinologic clinics. A combined method of biopsies from nasal polyps and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) was used to explore inflammatory phenotyes of NPCA. Patients were evaluated with respect to clinical, functional, and inflammatory parameters. Clinical outcomes after medical treatment were also assessed.

RESULTS

Two distinct inflammatory phenotypes (eosinophilic [64.15%] and noneosinophilic phenotypes [35.85%]) were identified. Inflammatory patterns of upper and lower airways were consistent in NPCA. Patients with eosinophilic NPCA had a higher nasal polyps recurrence rate than did patients with noneosinophilic NPCA, a more severe asthma phenotype (P < .001), higher exhaled nitric oxide levels (P < .001), higher IgE levels (P < .001), higher Lund-Mackay scores (P < .05), and more blood eosinophilia (P < .001). In addition, eosinophilic NPCA was associated with worse pulmonary function and responded well to an 8-week course of medical treatment based on computed tomographic findings and the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity. The total IgE concentration was a marker for eosinophilic NPCA (optimal cutoff, >55.5 kU/L; sensitivity, 86.2%; specificity, 85.4%).

CONCLUSION

Patients with NPCA had 2 inflammatory phenotypes with distinct clinical profiles. Total IgE is a marker of eosinophilic NPCA.

The link between chronic rhinosinusitis and asthma: A questionnaire-based study

Treatments for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and asthma can affect both conditions, based on the united airway concept. This study aimed to evaluate the link between CRS and asthma, based on disease-specific quality of life measures.We performed a prospective cohort study to investigate the correlations between results from CRS- and asthma-specific questionnaires. Thirty-two patients with asthma and CRS were evaluated before and after undergoing nasal surgery at a tertiary medical center.There were significant correlations between the results from the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22, as well as between the results of the ACT and Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire, at both the preoperative and 3-month postoperative evaluations (P < 0.01). Moreover, nasal surgery improved the sinonasal symptoms, asthma control, and pulmonary function (P < 0.01).Increasingly severe sinonasal symptoms of CRS were associated with poor asthma control. Therefore, CRS and asthma should be considered and treated as common airway diseases.

Risk Factors and Comorbidities in Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a heterogeneous disorder that creates a significant burden on the healthcare system. It is caused by a combination of inflammatory, environmental, and host factors; however, the precise mechanism of how each factor leads to CRS continues to be a source of debate. Previous data regarding this topic is often inconsistent or of lower quality. In this article, we review the recent literature on the risk factors and comorbidities in CRS. Large population-based studies have helped establish smoking as a significant risk factor for CRS. The focus has now shifted towards smoking and its effect on long-term outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Ciliary dyskinesia, both primary and secondary, can affect both the sinonasal cavity and lower airways simultaneously by decreasing the beat frequency of cilia and inducing mucostasis. The effects of secondary dyskinesia may be reversible and there is some evidence to suggest the use of topical mucolytics in patients with CRS. Allergy and variants of sinonasal anatomy have been hypothesized to increase the risk of developing CRS by inducing chronic inflammation and obstructing the sinus ostia. Nevertheless, emerging data regarding these topics continue to produce inconclusive results. Inflammation of the upper and lower airways can occur simultaneously as seen in patients with asthma and aspirin sensitivity. The connection between these pro-inflammatory disease states has been known for many years. Newer evidence include large population-based studies and studies that correlate objective tests, such as computer tomography scans to pulmonary function tests. However, the treatment of CRS and its effects on obstructive airway disease continues to be a topic of debate. More large prospective studies are needed in order to continue refining our knowledge of the disease processes in CRS.

Prevalence of confirmed asthma varies in chronic rhinosinusitis subtypes

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and asthma describe inflammation of the upper and lower airway, respectively. Not surprisingly, the prevalence of CRS and asthma has been linked, with up to 50% asthma prevalence in CRS with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) patients. However, these prevalence rates do not address subtypes of CRSwNP including allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS). This study sets out to objectively determine asthma prevalence in CRS subtypes prospectively.

METHODS

A prospective prevalence study of adult CRS patients was conducted over a 1-year period at a tertiary care center. Patients were grouped into CRSwNP, CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP), or AFRS. Patients were administered the Asthma Screening Questionnaire (ASQ) and asthma was confirmed by pulmonary function testing (PFT) if positive on the ASQ. Chi square analysis was performed to compare the asthma prevalence among the CRS subtypes.

RESULTS

A total of 410 patients (age 48.1 ± 16.4; 53.5% male) were included. Of these, 178 (43.4%) had CRSwNP, 166 (40.5%) had CRSsNP, and 66 (16.1%) met criteria for AFRS. Analysis revealed that 48.3% of CRSwNP patients, 16.5% of CRSsNP patients, and 23.6% of AFRS patients had asthma confirmed by PFTs. Chi square analysis showed a significant difference in asthma prevalence between CRSwNP and AFRS (p = 0.0016) and CRSwNP and CRSsNP (p = 0.0000), but no significant difference between CRSsNP and AFRS (p = 0.2380).

CONCLUSION

There is a significant difference in the prevalence of asthma between CRSwNP and AFRS, suggesting a fundamental distinction in their etiologies despite similar immunologic profiles. Further efforts to delineate these biological disparities are underway.

Nasal polyps in patients with asthma: prevalence, impact, and management challenges

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) often have coexisting asthma under the concept of “United Airway Disease”, being the combination of both diseases, which is one of the most challenging phenotypes to treat. Although clinicians have recognized this difficult-to-treat phenotype for many years, it remained poorly characterized. There is increasing epidemiological evidence linking chronic rhinosinusitis and asthma, but a good understanding of the pathophysiology and the combined management is still lacking. Bronchial asthma is more prevalent in patients who suffer chronic rhinosinusitis, while asthmatic patients have a greater prevalence of CRSwNP than patients without asthma. The effect of CRSwNP treatment, whether medical or surgical, in asthma is today less controversial after some studies have shown improvement of asthma after medical and/or surgical treatment of CRSwNP. However, direct comparisons between surgical and medical treatments are limited. Further randomized clinical trials are, however, still needed to better understand the management when both asthma and CRSwNP occur together. This review aims at summarizing the prevalence, impact, and management challenges regarding both asthma and CRSwNP.

Surgical versus medical interventions in CRS and nasal polyps: comparative evidence between medical and surgical efficacy

CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a subgroup of CRS, where polyps can be visualised in the middle meatus. In the general population, the prevalence is estimated to lie between 0.2 and 4 %. Up to 15 % of patients with asthma have nasal polyps and up to 45 % of patients with nasal polyps have asthma. The management of CRSwNP involves primary medical management, with surgery normally reserved for recalcitrant cases. Surgical techniques for CRSwNP range from simple polypectomy and endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to radical nasalisation with removal of the middle turbinates. We have reviewed the comparative literature regarding medical and surgical interventions in CRSwNP, with emphasis on outcomes, complications, cost-effectiveness and on the timing of surgery. Similar outcomes are reported for medical and surgical management, but there is sufficient evidence to support the role of surgery once symptoms have failed to adequately respond. There is insufficient evidence to define the optimal timing and extent of surgery.