title: Role of medical therapy in the management of nasal polyps.
abstract: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal and paranasal sinus mucosa that, despite differing hypotheses regarding its cause, remains poorly understood. Major symptoms are nasal congestion or blockage, loss of smell, rhinorrhea, postnasal drip, and facial pain or pressure. Among the objectives of CRSwNP management are to eradicate nasal polyps from nasal and sinusal cavities, eliminate symptoms, and prevent recurrences. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment and are the most effective drugs for treating CRSwNP. Other potential treatments are nasal saline irrigation and antihistamines (in allergic conditions). Endoscopic sinus surgery is recommended when medical treatment fails. After surgery, medical treatment, including nasal and oral corticosteroids, is recommended.
authors.affiliation: Unitat de Rinologia i Clínica de l'Olfacte, Servei d'Otorinolaringologia, Hospital Clínic i Universitari, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain.
authors.forename: Isam
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Alobid
authors.forename: Joaquim
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Mullol
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000287:Administration, Topical; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D055556:Nasal Lavage; D009298:Nasal Polyps / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy*; D012220:Rhinitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012852:Sinusitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000935:Antifungal Agents