Polypoid changes of the middle turbinate as an indicator of atopic disease.
BACKGROUND
High levels of local immunoglobulin E (IgE) have been demonstrated in nasal polypoid tissue; however, an association between nasal polyps and allergy has not been proven. The authors have observed that polypoid edema isolated to the leading edge of the middle turbinate (MT) is highly associated with allergic rhinitis. The objective of this study was to determine if there is an association between isolated MT polyps and inhalant allergy.


METHODS
A single institution prospective study was performed. Twenty-five consecutive patients found to have isolated MT polyps on endoscopic exam were recruited. Nasal and allergy symptoms were documented on the intake form. Allergy testing was recommended to all patients.


RESULTS
Of the 25 patients found to have isolated MT polypoid edema documented on endoscopic exam, 16 patients underwent skin or in vitro allergy testing. All of the patients tested positive for inhalant allergy.


CONCLUSIONS
This small series provides strong evidence to support an association between isolated MT polypoid edema and allergy. We recommend allergy testing in all patients with isolated MT polyps or polypoid edema.
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA.
Laura J
LJ
White
Melissa R
MR
Rotella
John M
JM
DelGaudio
D000328:Adult; D000393:Air Pollutants / Q000009:adverse effects; D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000276:immunology; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D004724:Endoscopy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006984:Hypertrophy; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000097:blood; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009298:Nasal Polyps / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011379:Prognosis; D012882:Skin Tests; D014420:Turbinates / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D055815:Young Adult
D000393:Air Pollutants; D000485:Allergens; D015415:Biomarkers; D007073:Immunoglobulin E
Allergy; allergic rhinitis; atopic disease; middle turbinate; polypoid edema; polyps