[Allergic rhinitis and asthma: pathophysiological relationship and implications for treatment].
Allergic rhinitis and asthma share various clinical, pathophysiological and immunological characteristics and often coexist. Recent studies provide evidence of cross-talk between both airway compartments, possibly by systemic signalling. These observations resulted in the concept of 'allergic airway disease', providing a rationale for systemic treatment. Presently, many novel systemic treatment modalities, including anti-IgE and phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors, are being evaluated in clinical trials. In the Netherlands, there are currently two registered systemic therapies targeting the pathophysiological mechanisms of the united airway disease: leukotriene receptor antagonists and immunotherapy. These therapies are usually prescribed in combination with the standard pharmacotherapy.
Diamant
Z
Z
Centre for Human DrugResearch, afd. Long-en Allergieresearch, Zernikedreef 10, 2333 CL Leiden. z.diamant@gems.demon.nl
Tarasevych
S
S
Chandoesing
P
P
van Wijk
R Gerth
RG
de Groot
H
H
D001249:Asthma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007167:Immunotherapy; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012221:Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D006255:Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists