Vasomotor rhinitis update.
OBJECTIVE
This review was conducted to examine new data on vasomotor rhinitis, a common clinical problem.


RESULTS
Recent publications highlight advances in the study of the pathophysiology of vasomotor rhinitis. Electron microscopic and ultracytochemical evaluation of the nasal mucosa in vasomotor rhinitis demonstrates an emerging role of neuropeptides and nitric oxide in the pathogenesis of vasomotor rhinitis. Ozone, cigarette smoke, and other environmental factors may trigger neurogenic mechanisms that lead to vasomotor rhinitis. Objective tests have documented the presence of hypoactive sympathetic autonomic dysfunction. Such assessments also suggest autonomic dysfunction as a possible link between vasomotor rhinitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Recent publications propose nasal secretory protein analysis as a possible diagnostic tool. Evidence-based review of treatment outcomes shows topical sprays of azelastine, budesonide, and ipratropium to be of benefit in vasomotor rhinitis.


CONCLUSIONS
A better understanding of the role of nitric oxide and neuropeptides in the pathogenesis of vasomotor rhinitis has opened new avenues in research, diagnosis, and management. Clinical diagnosis may be aided by the analysis of nasal secretory proteins. Effective treatments include antihistamine, anticholinergics, and steroid nasal sprays.
Lal
Devyani
D
University of Chicago, Section of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA.
Corey
Jacquelynne P
JP
D001341:Autonomic Nervous System / Q000503:physiopathology; D004785:Environmental Pollutants / Q000009:adverse effects; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009297:Nasal Mucosa / Q000294:innervation / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D009479:Neuropeptides / Q000502:physiology; D009569:Nitric Oxide / Q000502:physiology; D011506:Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D012223:Rhinitis, Vasomotor / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D012307:Risk Factors
D004785:Environmental Pollutants; D009479:Neuropeptides; D011506:Proteins; D009569:Nitric Oxide