Clinical practice guideline: adult sinusitis

Assessment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: Development of the Nasal Polyp Patient Assessment Scoring Sheet tool

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a heterogeneous disorder with a wide range of validated subjective and objective assessment tools to assess disease severity. However, a comprehensive and easy-to-use tool that integrates these measures for determining disease severity and response to treatment is still obscure. The objective of this study was to develop a standardized assessment tool that facilitates diagnosis, uniform patient monitoring, and comparison of treatment outcomes between different centers both in routine clinical practice and in research.

Methods

To develop this tool, published literature on assessment tools was searched on various databases. A panel of 12 steering committee members conducted an advisory board meeting to review the findings. Specific outcome measures to be included in a comprehensive assessment tool and follow-up sheet were then collated following consensus approval from the panel. The tool was further validated for content and revised with expert recommendations to arrive at the finalized Nasal Polyp Patient Assessment Scoring Sheet (N-PASS) tool.

Results

The N-PASS tool was developed by integrating the subjective and objective measures for CRS assessment. Based on expert opinions, N-PASS was revised to be used as an easy-to-use guidance tool that captures patient-reported and physician-assessed components for comprehensively assessing disease status and response to treatment.

Conclusion

The N-PASS tool can be used to aid in the diagnosis and management of CRS cases with nasal polyps. The tool would also aid in improved monitoring of patients and pave the way for an international disease registry.

Level of evidence

Oxford Level 3.

Trends and Frequencies of Antibiotic Prescriptions for Acute Sinusitis Outpatient Visits in Adults

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to analyze the trends and frequency in which recommended first-line therapy, amoxicillin with or without clavulanate, was prescribed for acute sinusitis based on current otolaryngology and other gold standard guidelines, as well as analyze differences in prescription behaviors of otolaryngologists compared with non-otolaryngologists for outpatient adult acute sinusitis visits.

METHODS

Weighted patient data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey were analyzed to calculate visit rates and trends of antibiotic prescriptions for adults diagnosed with acute sinusitis from 2007 to 2019. Visits with multiple prescribed antibiotics or concomitant diagnoses requiring antibiotics were excluded. Each visit was classified based on the type of antibiotic prescribed.

RESULTS

Acute sinusitis was diagnosed in 0.63% of all outpatient visits from 2007 to 2019 (95% confidence interval: 0.56%-0.71%). Amoxicillin had the greatest increase in prescription frequency (13.4%), whereas macrolides had the largest decrease in prescription frequency (13.9%). Among adult acute sinusitis outpatient visits in which antibiotics were prescribed, recommended first-line antibiotic therapy of amoxicillin-clavulanate or amoxicillin alone was prescribed in 40.4% of visits. The most common antibiotic prescribed was amoxicillin-clavulanate at otolaryngologist visits (20.5%) and macrolides at non-otolaryngologist visits (26.0%). A greater proportion of otolaryngologist visits resulted in no antibiotics prescribed for acute sinusitis (36.8% vs. 22.5%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Otolaryngologists engage in watchful waiting more than non-otolaryngologists. Broader dissemination of existing guidelines for acute sinusitis treatment to non-Otolaryngologist (ENT) primary care specialties that take care of acute sinusitis to improve antibiotic stewardship and appropriate antibiotic selection is needed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 134:2622-2625, 2024.

The Role of Nasal Endoscopy in the Preoperative Evaluation of Nasal Airway Obstruction

OBJECTIVE

To examine the prevalence and nature of nasal endoscopic findings in patients referred for structural nasal obstruction, and analyze how such findings influence the preoperative evaluation or operative plan.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

University-based academic otolaryngology practice.

METHODS

Nasal endoscopy was performed by a single surgeon and the exam findings were documented. Patient demographics, variables in the patient history, Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation scores, and an Ease-of-Breathing Likert Scale were tested for associations with findings on endoscopy.

RESULTS

A total of 82 of 346 patients (23.7%) had findings on rigid nasal endoscopy not appreciable on anterior rhinoscopy. Prior nasal surgery (p = .001) and positive allergy testing (p = .013) were significantly associated with findings on nasal endoscopy. Endoscopic findings prompted additional preoperative studies in 50 (14.5%) patients, and a change in the operative plan in 26 (7.5%) patients.

CONCLUSION

In patients referred for surgical management of nasal obstruction, findings on nasal endoscopy otherwise undetected with anterior rhinoscopy are most common in but certainly not limited to those with prior nasal surgery or allergic rhinitis. Routine nasal endoscopy should be considered for all patients being evaluated for nasal airway surgery. These results may benefit future updates of the clinical consensus statements regarding the role of nasal endoscopy in the evaluation of nasal valve compromise and septoplasty.

Higher Prevalence and Severity of Eosinophilic Otitis Media in Patients with Asthma-COPD Overlap Compared with Asthma Alone

INTRODUCTION

Eosinophilic otitis media (EOM) is well-known to frequently co-exist with adult-onset asthma. Both diseases are similar type 2 inflammation and are considered to have a "one airway, one disease" relationship. Asthma-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) overlap (ACO), characterized by airway obstruction caused by airway wall thickening (AWT), is a severe condition with a higher incidence of mortality compared to asthma alone or COPD alone. Based on the "one airway, one disease" concept, we hypothesized that the inflammatory pathophysiology of EOM differs depending on its comorbidity with ACO or with asthma alone.

METHODS

A total of 77 chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients with asthma were enrolled in this study. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: a group with comorbid asthma alone (asthma group; 46 patients), and a group with comorbid ACO (ACO group; 31 patients). The 2 groups were compared and assessed with regard to various factors, including the patients' clinical characteristics, prevalence rate of EOM, EOM severity, EOMs relationships with smoking and AWT, and the eosinophil and neutrophil cell counts in the middle ear effusion (MEE).

RESULTS

The ACO group included significantly more males (p < 0.05), was significantly older (p < 0.05), and showed significantly lower lung function values (FEV1 [L], FEV1 [%pred]) (p < 0.01) compared with the asthma group. The ACO group also had a significant history of smoking as shown by the Brinkman index (p < 0.01) and greater AWT as assessed by high-resolution computed tomography (p < 0.05). The EOM prevalence rate was significantly higher in the ACO group (p < 0.05), especially with increased ACO severity (p < 0.05). The EOM severity was also significantly higher in the ACO group (p < 0.05) and also correlated with the ACO severity (p < 0.05). The pretreatment ear clinical characteristics score and the average air conduction hearing level were significantly higher in the ACO group (p < 0.05). The eosinophil percentage in the MEE/otorrhea was significantly lower in the ACO group (25.3%) than in the asthma group (54.7%) (p < 0.05). Conversely, the neutrophil percentage was significantly higher in the ACO group (75.7% vs. 41.9%) (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that, in CRS patients with asthma, comorbidity with ACO may be a clinical factor leading to increased EOM prevalence and severity, as well as a higher neutrophil infiltration percentage in the middle ear. Cessation of smoking and early therapeutic intervention for ACO may mitigate progression of bronchial remodeling (i.e., reduce AWT) and help reduce the prevalence and severity of EOM.

Sex Differences in Presentation and Surgical Outcomes From a Prospective Multicenter Chronic Rhinosinusitis Study

OBJECTIVE

Despite extensive research into chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) epidemiology, presentation, and outcomes, there is scant knowledge on sex-specific differences. The objective of this study was to identify differences between male and female patients with CRS in baseline disease severity at presentation, choice for surgery vs continued medical treatment, and postoperative response.

STUDY DESIGN

We evaluated data on demographic and health characteristics, clinical objective disease measures, and sinus-specific and general health patient-reported outcome measures.

SETTING

Secondary analysis of prospective multicenter outcome study.

METHODS

Comparison of cohort characteristics and baseline and postoperative measures was performed with a t test, chi-square test of independence, or Fisher exact test. Within-subject improvement was compared between sexes with a linear mixed model.

RESULTS

Females reported worse quality of life on presentation and postsurgery, despite experiencing less severe disease by standard clinical measures. Overall, females and males showed similar within-subject improvement after surgery. However, certain quality of life domains and disease measures showed sex-specific improvement. Females demonstrated greater within-subject improvement in SF6D-derived health utility and the SNOT-22 ear and facial, psychological, and sleep subdomains, although this did not reach statistical significance for the overall cohort.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating data on sex-specific differences may be important to personalize CRS treatment decision making. The discordance between patient-reported and clinical measures in CRS has been demonstrated in other pathologies and appears to be exaggerated by sex. Biological and psychological bases for sex-specific differences in CRS manifestations are an intriguing topic for further research.

Use of low-level laser therapy for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis: a single-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is one of the most common conditions all over the world. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in patients with CRS. Fourteen adult patients with CRS participated in this single-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial (12 male, mean age 40 years). Patients received five successive sessions of sham laser followed by five successive sessions of real laser after 2 days. Ga-Al-As laser of 830 nm in a continuous mode at a power output of 30 mW and energy dose of 1 J was applied on the cheeks and the forehead for the maxillary and frontal sinuses, respectively. Laser was delivered on six points over each sinus, each point for 33 s. Four measurements were taken. The total symptom score (TSS) was calculated as the primary outcome measure. The effects of LLLT on TSS were evaluated by using repeated measure ANOVA. The percentage improvement of real laser and sham laser was compared by Wilcoxon signed ranked test. Cohen's d was used to calculate the effect size. Total symptom score significantly improved after real laser (p = 0.015, Cohen's d = 0.69). The percentage improvement for real laser (34.12 ± 46.43) was significantly better than the sham laser (5.02 ± 37.34, Z =  - 2.23, p = 0.026). No significant improvements were observed after sham laser. This study indicates that five-session active LLLT when compared with sham is effective in the treatment of CRS symptoms.

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps management in the biologic therapy era: an international YO-IFOS survey

PURPOSE

To investigate the consistency between the international guidelines recommendations and worldwide standard practices regarding diagnostic work-up and follow-up strategies for managing patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) in the era of monoclonal antibodies.

METHODS

A questionnaire developed by the Rhinology section of the Young Otolaryngologists of the International Federation of Oto-rhino-laryngological Societies (Yo-IFOS) included items regarding the management of CRSwNP patients, monoclonal prescription, surgical and follow-up procedures, awareness of biologicals availability, and other relevant clinical practices. The online survey was directed to otolaryngologists and distributed in Europe, North America, South America, and the Middle East through otolaryngological and/or rhinological societies.

RESULTS

A total of 202 responses were analyzed; the mean participants' age was 45 ± 11 (73% men and 27% women), and 31% were from the United States, Canada 19%, Europe 45%, Middle East and South America 5%. Only 60% of the respondents declared using validated symptoms and endoscopic score systems in their clinical practice. Several practice discrepancies emerged in our cohort, including preferred surgical approach, prescription of preoperative oral steroids, and perioperative antibiotics (59% and 58%, respectively), as well as divergent awareness levels of available biologics for CRSwNP worldwide.

CONCLUSIONS

CRSwNP needs a complex and time-consuming assessment, according to the latest guidelines. There seems to be a gap between these recommendations and the real-world data, which should draw more attention to bringing them into uniform clinical practice in the near future.

Assessment of Olfaction Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

To assess the olfactory outcomes following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS) in patients diagnosed with Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) and Sinonasal polyposis (SNP). To assess and compare the pre-operative and post-operative olfactory scores of patients undergoing ESS/ ESS + polypectomy/ESS + Septoplasty by subjective and objective methods. This is a prospective, cohort study which included a total of 60 patients. Subjective assessment was done using a Questionnaire. Preoperative olfactory assessment was performed with Sniffing Sticks. Olfactory assessment was done at 1st,3rd, 6th and 12th week following surgery. The preoperative and postoperative scores were statistically analysed and compared. In patients who underwent ESS, there was a significant reduction in olfactory scores in the immediate few weeks after surgery which improved over time by the end of 3 months. In patients who underwent ESS with polypectomy, there was a significant improvement in olfactory scores from the third week following surgery which was sustained over 3rd month follow-up. In patients who underwent ESS with Septoplasy, there was a significant decrease in olfactory scores during the initial few weeks with a marginal improvement during 3 months follow-up. At the end of 12 weeks post ESS, no patient was found to be anosmic. Patients with pre-existing hyposmia did not show statistically significant change post surgery.However patients with anosmia showed statistically significant improvement in olfactory function, but did not become normosmic at 12th post-operative week. Majority of normosmics did not have alteration in their olfactory perception at 12th post-operative week.

Nasal microbiome in chronic rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is defined as an inflammatory disorder of the paranasal sinuses and of the nasal mucosa that lasts 12 weeks or longer. In CRS microbes contribute to the disease pathogenesis. Clinical microbiology is focused on finding single pathogens that causes the disease and the main goal is the use of antibiotics to kill bacteria. Efforts to achieve a better understanding of CRS include the study of the sinus microbiome, and to evaluate the ability of probiotics to augment homeostasis and modulate the immune response of the host mucosa. This review provides an update on the role of the microbiome in CRS. The study was conducted using two databases: PubMed and Science Direct. We searched for articles in English that matched the review topic. We first used the abstracts of articles to assess whether they met the inclusion criteria. We also reviewed the references of the selected articles and read those with titles that might be of interest. Several studies have shown that endogenous microbiome dysbiosis can impact mucosa health and disease severity. Some bacterial species presenting protective or pathogenic effect. Antimicrobial agents can create a similar disruption and impact the nasal microbiome balance. On the other hand, probiotics offers a promising avenue for developing systemic and topical therapies geared towards strategic manipulation of the biological host load, thereby augmenting immune homeostasis. A better comprehension of sinus-nasal microbiome in healthy and in CRS patients and the link with different CRS phenotype can help in developing new prognostics, diagnostics, and therapeutics strategies. Going forward, the use of probiotics can restore the native sinus ecology with significant therapeutic and preventive implications.

Efficacy of Topical High Volume Budesonide Nasal Irrigation in Post FESS Patients of Chronic Rhinosinusitis With or Without Nasal Polyposis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a chronic inflammatory process of nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses, lasting more than 12 weeks, without complete resolution of symptoms. CRS is treated medically, followed by Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) if necessary, and supplemented by post-operative topical treatment with highly variable clinical outcomes. However, till date there is no consensus on the composition and duration of maximal medical treatment. Despite proven role of topical steroids, the mode of delivery, dose and duration of topical intranasal corticosteroids still remains debatable. Studies found that high volume sinonasal irrigation (> 50 ml) using budesonide is most efficient method but still there is not sufficient data to prove this and results are variable with multiple modifiable factors therefore, this study has been conducted. (1) To determine the difference in mean decrease in Lund-Kennedy endoscopic scores and SNOT-22 scores among post ESS patients with high volume budesonide nasal irrigation nasal cavity and control nasal cavity of chronic rhinosinusitis patients. (2) To determine safety by measuring serum cortisol levels and intra ocular pressure. This is hospital based interventional, randomised, double blind, control trial study. A total of 66 patients of CRS with previous failed medical therapy were included. Same patients nasal cavities were divided into control and case nasal cavities, to avoid demographic bias. All subjects had a baseline SNOT-22 scores (Sino Nasal Outcome Test scores), Lund Kennedy endoscopy score, NCCT PNS score. All patients were undergone ESS procedure. After nasal pack removal, nasal cavities were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive normal saline irrigation (control group) or 1 mg of budesonide irrigation (case group) for transnasal irrigation twice daily for 12 weeks. A total of 66 patients with 132 nasal cavities were included in the study. Out of which 16 were female and 50 were male with mean age 33 year and mean duration of symptoms was 38.19 months. Mean duration of follow up was for 3 months. Mean decrement in SNOT-22 score in control nasal cavity from 52.54(16.309) to 30.06 (18.16) and in endoscopic score from 6.53 (1.33) to 3.93 (1.6) which is statically significant (p value < 0.05) in both scores. Mean decrement in SNOT-22 score in case nasal cavity from 53.73 (15.75) to 21.15 (13.52) and in endoscopic score from 6.74 (1.8) to 2.77 (1.4) which is statically significant (p value < 0.05) in both scores. Decrement in SNOT-22 scores and endoscopy scores in case nasal cavity in comparision to control nasal cavity were compared by student 't' test and found to be statically significant (p value equals to 0.0001). In subjective outcomes 57.57% shows total improvement in control nasal cavities while 72.73% case nasal cavities shows total improvement. Our study shows high volume budesonide irrigation is safe and superior over normal saline irrigation and results were statistically comparable. Still further studies with larger sample size and longer duration of irrigation needed.Based on available evidence, high volume budesonide irrigation is statically safe and superior over normal saline irrigation.

A Comparison of Near-Infrared Imaging and Computerized Tomography Scan for Detecting Maxillary Sinusitis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the use of near-infrared (NIR) imaging as a tool for outpatient clinicians to quickly and accurately assess for maxillary sinusitis and to characterize its accuracy compared to computerized tomography (CT) scan.

METHODS

In a prospective investigational study, NIR and CT images from 65 patients who presented to a tertiary care rhinology clinic were compared to determine the sensitivity and specificity of NIR as an imaging modality.

RESULTS

The sensitivity and specificity of NIR imaging in distinguishing normal versus maxillary sinus disease was found to be 90% and 84%, normal versus mild maxillary sinus disease to be 76% and 91%, and mild versus severe maxillary sinus disease to be 96% and 81%, respectively. The average pixel intensity was also calculated and compared to the modified Lund-Mackay scores from CT scans to assess the ability of NIR imaging to stratify the severity of maxillary sinus disease. Average pixel intensity over a region of interest was significantly different (P < .001) between normal, mild, and severe disease, as well as when comparing normal versus mild (P < .001, 95% CI 42.22-105.39), normal versus severe (P < .001, 95% CI 119.43-174.14), and mild versus severe (P < .001, 95% CI 41.39-104.56) maxillary sinus disease.

CONCLUSION

Based on this data, NIR shows promise as a tool for identifying patients with potential maxillary sinus disease as well as providing information on severity of disease that may guide administration of appropriate treatments.

Odontogenic Sinusitis: From Diagnosis to Treatment Possibilities-A Narrative Review of Recent Data

The maxillary sinus is a structure at the border of specialties: otorhinolaryngology and maxillofacial surgery. Due to this fact, regarding etiology, it can be affected by both the rhinogenic and odontogenic path and can impose diagnostic difficulties. The etiopathogenic mechanisms that can affect the Schneiderian membrane are mainly inflammatory, iatrogenic, traumatic, and tumorous in nature. From a microbiological point of view, the bacteriology is polymorphic, including both aerobic and anaerobic species in acute OS, the predominating species in acute OS being aerobic, and in chronic anaerobic germs. The role of fungi in the determination of this pathology and in the production of the biofilm that leads to resistance to antibiotic treatment is also discussed. The present paper aims to present the etiopathogenesis, bacteriology, clinical manifestations, as well as treatment of odontogenic sinusitis (OS) from an updated perspective through reviewing the literature. If unilateral maxillary sinusitis is usually due to odontogenic causes, this does not clinically exclude the possibility of strictly rhinogenic causes in the occurrence of sinusitis. This underlines the important role of complex oral and rhinological clinical examination as well as the role of preclinical examinations in specifying the certainty diagnosis. Simple radiography, orthopantomography, CT, and CBCT are compared in terms of diagnostic accuracy. The treatment of OS is complex, involving medication, dental, and surgical measures. The value of endoscopic surgery is emphasized, comparing its advantages over the classic Caldwell-Luc technique.

Evaluation of maxillary sinusitis from panoramic radiographs and cone-beam computed tomographic images using a convolutional neural network

Purpose

Materials and Methods

Results

Conclusion

The possibility of short-term hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression with high-volume, high-dose nasal mometasone irrigation in postsurgical patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Medically refractory chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is often treated with functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and high-volume steroid nasal irrigation. While budesonide is the most common steroid irrigation for this indication, mometasone has a superior pharmacokinetic profile, which may allow dose escalation. The safety and efficacy of mometasone at higher concentrations than previously used in treating CRS have not been explored.

METHODS

Patients were recruited from a tertiary level clinic between June 2018 and December 2019. Inclusion criteria included adults (>18 years); CRS diagnosis; previous FESS; pre-treatment morning cortisol within normal range; minimum of twice daily high-volume sinonasal mometasone irrigations (total dose of 4 mg) for 12 weeks; and post-treatment morning cortisol measured within 2 weeks following the study period. Patients with potential for endogenous or exogenous disruption of the HPA axis were excluded.

RESULTS

14 patients were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. In all but one patient, pre- and post-treatment morning cortisol levels were not significantly different and were within normal limits (6.7-25.4 μg/dL). Following an uninterrupted 12-week treatment course, no evidence of HPA axis suppression was found (P = 0.915). The single patient who was found to have a low (1.3 μg/dL) post-treatment morning serum cortisol level reportedly received an intraarticular steroid shot several days prior to the blood draw. She remained asymptomatic and her rechecked serum cortisol was within normal limits at 12.3 μg/dL.

CONCLUSIONS

High-volume 2 mg twice daily sinonasal mometasone irrigations did not cause HPA axis suppression in a representative sample of patients with refractory CRS post-FESS with normal baseline cortisol levels.

Development of Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) Domains in Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps

Objectives/Hypothesis

The 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) is a validated chronic rhinosinusitis health‐related quality‐of‐life outcome (HRQoL) measure; however, SNOT‐22 domains have not been validated specifically for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

Study Design

Validation of SNOT‐22 domain structure, using data from 3 randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded, multicenter clinical trials of dupilumab in adults with moderate‐to‐severe CRSwNP.

Methods

Preliminary dimensional structure was derived by exploratory factor analyses of SNOT‐22 data from a phase 2 trial (NCT01920893) of dupilumab for the treatment of CRSwNP. Data from 2 phase 3 clinical trials (NCT02912468 and NCT02898454) were then used for confirmatory factor analysis, and evaluated for reliability, construct validity, and responsiveness. In all three trials, the SNOT‐22 was administered electronically on a tablet and trial participants were required to answer all items.

Results

Factor analysis supported five domains: Nasal, Ear/Facial, Sleep, Function, and Emotion. Correlations between domains were moderate to high, ranging from 0.53 (Nasal–Emotion) to 0.88 (Function–Sleep). Construct validity was mostly supported; relationships with other measures were almost always in the intended direction and magnitude. Internal consistency reliability also confirmed questionnaire structure with strong Cronbach's alpha values (all >0.80). Moderate‐to‐high correlations were observed between change in SNOT‐22 domain scores and other study patient‐reported outcome measures, along with large effect‐size estimates (≥0.7), demonstrating responsiveness of the Nasal, Sleep, and Function domains. Emotion and Ear/Facial domains had small‐to‐moderate effect sizes.

Conclusions

Psychometric analyses support the validity, reliability, and responsiveness of five domains of SNOT‐22 (Nasal, Ear/Facial, Sleep, Function, and Emotion) for assessing symptoms and impact on HRQoL in patients with CRSwNP. Laryngoscope, 132:933–941, 2022

Incidence and Treatment Outcome of Rhinosinusitis before Kidney Transplantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The use of immunosuppressants after transplantation can aggravate sinus infections. Although kidney transplantation (KT) recipients are administered strong immunosuppressant therapy, there is few consensus or reports on incidence and treatment of rhinosinusitis before KT. This study was undertaken to analyze the results of a cohort of KT recipients that underwent sinonasal evaluation before KT.

METHODS

Observational retrospective cohort data were analyzed from adults who underwent a KT between January 2015 and December 2018. In total, 966 patients were screened by clinical history, nasal endoscopy, and plain X-ray before KT.

RESULTS

A total of 86 patients (8.9%) were diagnosed with rhinosinusitis. Twenty-three of the eighty-six patients (26.7%) who underwent plain X-ray on second follow up were successfully treated with primary and secondary antibiotics, saline irrigation, and INS. From the remaining 63 patients who underwent additional CT on second follow up, 43 patients were treated with primary or secondary antibiotics and 20 patients (10 with chronic rhinosinusitis and 10 with fungal ball) were treated with endoscopic sinus surgery. There were no serious complications affecting patient mortality after KT.

CONCLUSION

We report that 8.9% of patients showed abnormal findings in sinonasal evaluation before KT. Although most patients did not require surgery, surgery is recommended for active rhinosinusitis, which does not respond to medication, and for fungal rhinosinusitis to prevent postoperative sinonasal infection.

Increased Expression of Activation-Induced Cytidine Deaminase in Sinus Mucosa from IgG4-Related Disease Patients with Comorbid Chronic Rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVE

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic condition characterized by an elevated serum IgG4 level, localized infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells, and lesions in various organs. IgG4-RD also shows high rates of complication with allergic diseases and is often accompanied by elevated serum IgE levels. Reports in recent years have also shown high rates of complication with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and its characteristic nasal manifestations. Accordingly, we speculate that there may be a distinct form of CRS that, as an IgG4-RD, differs from other CRS. Here, we investigated whether the elevated levels of factors that are thought to be important in the pathogenesis of IgG4-RD are also seen in the sinus mucosa of IgG4-RD-associated CRS patients.

METHODS

Ethmoid sinus mucosa specimens from 9 IgG4-RD (6 Mikulicz disease and 3 Küttner's tumor) patients with elevated serum IgG4 and IgE and from 22 control CRS patients were examined immunohistochemically for Treg cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β), activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), and immunocompetent cells. The 22 control CRS patients were divided into 3 subgroups based on the serological findings for IgG4 and IgE. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to examine the expression of AID.

RESULTS

The ethmoid sinus mucosa from patients with IgG4-RD-associated CRS showed, in comparison with the 3 CRS control subgroups, significantly elevated AID production. Their mucosa also showed significantly increased infiltration of CD-20-positive immunocompetent cells compared with the controls. On the other hand, immunohistochemical examination found no significant differences in the number of IL-10- or TGF-β-positive cells.

CONCLUSION

Ethmoid sinus mucosa from IgG4-RD-associated CRS patients showed clearly increased AID production, suggesting AID involvement in class-switching to IgG4 in those local sites. This implies the existence of a distinct form of CRS that is an IgG4-RD.

Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activities of Weissella cibaria against Pathogens of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Recently discovered preventive effects of probiotics on oral health have attracted interest to their use for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of Weissella cibaria against Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, S. pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis, the major pathogens of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). The antimicrobial activities of W. cibaria were compared with those of other oral probiotics using a competitive inhibition assay and the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). In addition, a time-kill assay, spectrophotometry, and confocal laser scanning microscopy were used to confirm the antimicrobial and antibiofilm abilities of W. cibaria CMU (oraCMU) and CMS1 (oraCMS1). Both live cells and cell-free supernatants of all tested probiotics, except Streptococcus salivarius, showed excellent antimicrobial activities. All target pathogens were killed within 4 to 24 h at twice the MIC of oraCMU and oraCMS1, which showed the highest antimicrobial activities against M. catarrhalis. The antimicrobial substances that affected different target pathogens were different. Both oraCMU and oraCMS1 showed excellent abilities to inhibit biofilm formation and remove preformed biofilms. Our results suggest that the W. cibaria probiotics offer new possibilities for the prevention and treatment of bacterial URTIs.

Effects of head tilt on squeeze-bottle nasal irrigation - A computational fluid dynamics study

Nasal irrigation is a widely recognized treatment for several sinonasal diseases. However, there is a lack of clear evidence-based guidelines for optimal irrigation delivery to improve lavage and topical drug delivery. This study uses computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to assess the effects of different head tilt positions on sinonasal coverage, residence time and shear stresses in squeeze-bottle nasal irrigation. A sinonasal cavity computational model was constructed from a high-resolution CT scan of a healthy, 25-year-old Asian female. The Volume of Fluid method was used to track the interface between the two immiscible fluids (air and water). The direction of gravity was varied to simulate different head tilt-positions (0° Straight, 45° Forward, 45° Left, 45° Right and 45° Backward) during nasal irrigation with 150 mL liquid via a squeeze bottle through the left nostril for 2 s with a 0.1 s acceleration/deceleration time. The results showed that the 45° backward head tilt position was the most effective in delivering irrigation to the ethmoid, frontal and sphenoid sinuses. Altering head tilt had minimal impact on irrigation delivery to the maxillary sinuses. Maximum wall shear stresses seen in localized areas of the sinus mucosa varied significantly with different head tilt angles. However, the difference in mean wall shear stress on the sinus surfaces was marginal with changing head tilt position. The findings suggest that an optimized head tilt position can be identified to improve liquid irrigation to targeted sinuses, as per treatment requirements (lavage and topical drug delivery).

International consensus statement on allergy and rhinology: rhinosinusitis 2021

I.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

BACKGROUND: The 5 years since the publication of the first International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Rhinosinusitis (ICAR-RS) has witnessed foundational progress in our understanding and treatment of rhinologic disease. These advances are reflected within the more than 40 new topics covered within the ICAR-RS-2021 as well as updates to the original 140 topics. This executive summary consolidates the evidence-based findings of the document.

METHODS

ICAR-RS presents over 180 topics in the forms of evidence-based reviews with recommendations (EBRRs), evidence-based reviews, and literature reviews. The highest grade structured recommendations of the EBRR sections are summarized in this executive summary.

RESULTS

ICAR-RS-2021 covers 22 topics regarding the medical management of RS, which are grade A/B and are presented in the executive summary. Additionally, 4 topics regarding the surgical management of RS are grade A/B and are presented in the executive summary. Finally, a comprehensive evidence-based management algorithm is provided.

CONCLUSION

This ICAR-RS-2021 executive summary provides a compilation of the evidence-based recommendations for medical and surgical treatment of the most common forms of RS.

The Role of Diagnostic Nasal Endoscopy and a Computed Tomography Scan (Nose and PNS) in the Assessment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Comparative Evaluation of the Two Techniques

Introduction: The objective components of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) diagnosis require confirmatory findings from either diagnostic nasal endoscopy (DNE) or a computed tomography (CT) scan. Chronic rhinosinusitis affects a significant population worldwide, imposing a huge toll on the human economy as well as on quality of life. Thus, it is particularly important to define a cost-effective and easily available diagnostic tool for it. Hence, we have conducted this study with the aim of assessing the effectiveness of DNE in comparison with CT for evaluating CRS. Material and Methods: Eighty participants fulfilling the diagnostic symptom criteria of CRS underwent CTs of their noses and paranasal sinuses (PNS) and DNE. Standard Lund–Mackay and Lund–Kennedy scores were awarded to all participants based on the CT and DNE. A comparative analysis was done. Results: DNE in comparison to CT had 92.31% sensitivity, 73.33% specificity, 93.75% positive predictive value, 68.75% negative predictive value, and 88.75% diagnostic accuracy. Conclusion: We suggest that nasal endoscopy be used as an early diagnostic tool in the clinical assessment of suspected CRS patients (based on the diagnostic symptom criteria). DNE helps to decrease the usage of CT, thereby decreasing cost and radiation exposure. Computed tomography may be added for patients having anatomical defects (affecting endoscopic visualization) or refractory disease, and where surgery has been planned.

Factors affecting upper airway control of NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease: A real-world study of 167 patients

BACKGROUND

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) is a triad with asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and NSAID intolerance. Uncontrolled N-ERD forms a major public health problem due to frequent and difficult-to-treat exacerbations and/or requiring putatively frequent endoscopic sinus surgeries (ESS). Our aim was to study factors affecting control of N-ERD.

METHODS

Retrospective patient record data (patient characteristics, prior sinus surgeries, follow-up data in 2020) from 167 N-ERD patients undergoing consultation at three tertiary hospitals from 2001 to 2017 was used. Outcome measurements reflecting uncontrolled N-ERD were revision ESS, corticosteroids/biological therapy, and antibiotic courses during 2016-2020. Associations were analyzed by using nonparametric tests, Cox's proportional hazard, and binary logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Nasal polyp eosinophilia increased the risk of revision surgery during the follow-up (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 3.21, confidence interval 1.23-8.38). Also baseline oral corticosteroids (OCS; HR, 1.73, 1.04-2.89) and baseline surgery without total ethmoidectomy increased the risk of revision ESS (HR, 2.17, 1.07-4.42) in unadjusted models. In addition, both baseline OCS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.78, 1.23-6.26) and a history of ≥4 previous ESS (aOR, 2.15, 0.98-4.70) were associated with the use of OCS/biological therapy during the follow-up, but not with high number of antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Nasal polyp eosinophilia, baseline OCS, and a history of recurrent ESS predict uncontrolled N-ERD. These factors might be clinically useful in risk-estimation of uncontrolled disease and for organizing follow-ups. Prospective cohort studies with larger sample size are needed to further study the factors affecting the upper airway control of N-ERD.

Contemporary Incremental Healthcare Costs for Chronic Rhinosinusitis in the United States

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

Determine contemporary incremental increases in healthcare expenditures and utilization associated with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis of national health care survey data.

METHODS

Patients reporting a diagnosis of CRS were extracted from the 2018 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey medical conditions file and linked to the consolidated expenditures file. CRS patients were then compared to non-CRS patients determining differences in healthcare utilization for office visits, emergency facility visits, and prescriptions filled as well as differences in total healthcare costs, office-based costs, prescription medication costs, and self-expenditures using demographically and comorbidity adjusted multivariate models. Results were compared to 2007, adjusted for inflation.

RESULTS

An estimated 7.28 ± 0.36 million adult patients reported CRS in 2018 (3.0 ± 0.1% of the adult U.S. population). The additional incremental healthcare utilizations associated with CRS relative to non-CRS patients for office visits, emergency facility visits, and number of prescriptions filled were 4.2 ± 0.6, 0.10 ± 0.03, and 6.0 ± 0.9, respectively (all P ≤ .003). Similarly, additional incremental healthcare expenditures associated with CRS for total health care expenses, office-based visit expenditures, prescription expenditures, and self-expenditures were $1,983 ± 569, $772 ± 139, $678 ± 213, and $68 ± 17, respectively (all P ≤ .002). Increases in total (+$1,062) and office based expenditures (+$360) compared to 2007 were significant.

CONCLUSION

CRS continues to be associated with a substantial incremental increase in healthcare utilization and expenditures. These expenditures have significantly outpaced inflation expected increases. The national healthcare costs of CRS have increased to an estimated $14.4 billion per year.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Comparison of Blood and Tissue Eosinophil Count and Blood IgE in Patients with Chronic Sinusitis and Nasal Polyps

Background

The inflammatory mucosa of the sinus cavities is called sinusitis and is divided into various types based on its appearance and sign. Chronic rhinosinusitis is an inflammatory-infectious disease that involves the frontal, sphenoid, ethmoid, and maxillary sinuses. Chronic sinusitis is a multifactorial disease and the range of causes varies from environmental factors to genetic factors. The purpose of this study was to compare blood and tissue eosinophils and serum IgE levels in patients with chronic sinusitis with nasal polyp in Vali-e-Asr hospital in 1397.

Methods

In this descriptive-analytical study, the population under study included those with chronic sinusitis referred to Birjand Valiasr Hospital in 1397.3 cc of blood samples were taken 1 day before surgery to evaluate eosinophil counts and serum IgE levels. Also, samples taken from patients during surgery were counted, and then, 100 cells were counted, and eosinophil counts and percentages were calculated. The data were entered into the SPSS software after data collection.

Results

This study was performed on 70 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis which included 43 men (61.4%) and 27 women (38.6%) with mean age of 39.11 ± 13 13.72 years. There was no significant difference between sex of patients and mean serum IgE level (P < 0.05). The mean percentage of eosinophils in blood samples and tissues of patients with chronic sinusitis was significantly increased with the increase in CT scan (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Tissue or blood eosinophilia was not observed in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Also, the mean eosinophil percentage of blood and tissue increased significantly in patients with increased scanning computed tomography (P < 0.05).

Outcomes of Septal Perforation Repair With Concurrent Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study reviews a cohort of patients in whom septal perforation repair was performed concurrently with endoscopic sinus surgery. We present an endonasal perforation repair technique using bilateral mucosal flaps with an autogenous interposition graft. Intraoperative and postoperative management of the combined surgical patient is discussed and perforation closure outcomes are reported.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

Tertiary care center.

METHODS

In this institutional review board-approved retrospective chart review, adult patients who underwent concurrent bilateral mucosal flap septal perforation repair and endoscopic sinus surgery from March 1992 to March 2020 were identified. Data on demographics, clinical presentations, perforation size, surgical techniques, and outcomes were extracted and analyzed for patients with a minimum of 3 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients met study inclusion criteria. Nasal obstruction/congestion was the most frequent symptom reported (80.4%), followed by crusting and epistaxis. Mean perforation size measured at the time of surgery was 14.7 (range, 3-41) mm in length by 9.3 (range, 2-23) mm in height. Temporalis fascia was the most frequent (57.9%) interposition graft material used. Complete perforation closure at the time of the last follow-up was noted in 51 (91.1%) patients. Only 1 failure was noted in the last 48 attempted repairs.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a perforated septum may have coexistent chronic sinusitis. The feasibility of attempting concurrent sinus surgery and perforation repair has been questioned. Our review demonstrates a high perforation closure rate when a bilateral mucosal flap procedure is performed after sinus surgery is performed at the same setting.

[Systemic and local antibiotic therapy for acute sinusitis]

The purpose of the study was to summarize data on modern antibiotic therapy for acute sinusitis, the role and place of topical antibacterial drugs, in particular Fluimucil-Antibiotic, in modern treatment strategies for this disease.

METHODS

Search in the PUBMED electronic database (articles and related abstracts) for the keywords «acute sinusitis", «antibiotics», «thiamphenicol glycinate acetylcysteine» «biofilm», «respiratory tract infection», «N-acetylcysteine».

RESULTS

The published research results indicate the high antibacterial activity of the Fluimucil-Antibiotic, in particular, for the topical drug use in the form of inhalations, applications, irrigation, and instillations. The published research results indicate a wide spectrum of antimicrobial action of Fluimucil-Antibiotic, its ability to destroy biofilms and prevent their formation, good pharmacokinetics, safety, which makes it possible to consider it as a potential treatment option for acute sinusitis in everyday practice.

The role of sinus CT in surgical treatment decisions for chronic rhinosinusitis

AIMS & OBJECTIVES

To define a predictive role of Lund Mackay CT scan [LM] score in treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis [CRS] by functional endoscopic sinus surgery [FESS].

MATERIALS & METHODS

A prospective study was done on the cited subject in a sample size of 30 patients suffering from CRS failing maximal medical treatment. All the patients underwent FESS under general anaesthesia. CT scan with Lund Mackey scoring was done preoperatively and postoperatively. The symptomatic improvement was analysed using SNOT-22 score over a time period of one year. The SNOT-22 scores were statistically analysed with pre-op Lund Mackey scores to draw judicious conclusions.

RESULTS

A mean Lund Mackey pre-operative score [LM] of 13.1 was recorded in the patients undergoing FESS for CRS. Further, the patients were divided into two groups: one with LM score less than 13.1 [Group-A] and the other with LM score of more than 13.1 [Group B]. A statistically significant improvement in symptoms with good long-term prognosis was recorded in Group-B only. In addition, a direct correlation between Lund Mackay score and extent of surgery was also seen, greater the score more extensive the FESS.

CONCLUSION

There is a predictive value of LM score in prognosis of FESS. We believe that a minimum LM score of 13.1 gives good clinical outcomes in patients with CRS who undergo FESS and thus can be used as a threshold for recruiting CRS patients for FESS.

Expression of Bitter Taste Receptors and Solitary Chemosensory Cell Markers in the Human Sinonasal Cavity

Some bitter taste receptors (TAS2R gene products) are expressed in the human sinonasal cavity and may function to detect airborne irritants. The expression of all 25 human bitter taste receptors and their location within the upper airway is not yet clear. The aim of this study is to characterize the presence and distribution of TAS2R transcripts and solitary chemosensory cells (SCCs) in different locations of the human sinonasal cavity. Biopsies were obtained from human subjects at up to 4 different sinonasal anatomic sites. PCR, microarray, and qRT-PCR were used to examine gene transcript expression. The 25 human bitter taste receptors as well as the sweet/umami receptor subunit, TAS1R3, and canonical taste signaling effectors are expressed in sinonasal tissue. All 25 human bitter taste receptors are expressed in the human upper airway, and expression of these gene products was higher in the ethmoid sinus than nasal cavity locations. Fluorescent in situ hybridization demonstrates that epithelial TRPM5 and TAS2R38 are expressed in a rare cell population compared with multiciliated cells, and at times, consistent with SCC morphology. Secondary analysis of published human sinus single-cell RNAseq data did not uncover TAS2R or canonical taste transduction transcripts in multiciliated cells. These findings indicate that the sinus has higher expression of SCC markers than the nasal cavity in chronic rhinosinusitis patients, comprising a rare cell type. Biopsies obtained from the ethmoid sinus may serve as the best location for study of human upper airway taste receptors and SCCs.

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the maxilla: Prognosis of oral surgery combined with endoscopic sinus surgery

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) on the resolution of maxillary medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study included 62 patients diagnosed with MRONJ in the maxillary posterior area with or without maxillary sinusitis (MS). All patients underwent oral surgery. The concomitant MS was evaluated, and if indicated, FESS was performed on the same operation. Follow-up included clinical and radiological examinations at 4 months postoperation.

RESULTS

Of the 62 patients, 24 (38.7%) showed no evidence of MS and 38 (61.3%) showed MS. Advanced MRONJ (stage 3), which has bony destruction of the sinus floor and signs of MS according to its definition, was seen in 27 patients (43.5%). In stage 3 MRONJ, patients with combined treatment of oral surgery and FESS compared to those treated with oral surgery alone showed higher percentage of resolution (84.2%, 37.5%, respectively) at 4 months postoperatively, and the results were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous management of MRONJ and sinusitis with combined treatment of oral surgery and FESS for the treatment of maxillary MRONJ can be an effective method, especially for advanced cases, to address its associated lesions.

Risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis: A nationwide propensity score matched study in Taiwan

AIMS

Chronic inflammation is linked to cancer. This study aims to evaluate the association between chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) through a Taiwanese nationwide database.

METHODS

We used the National Health Insurance Research Database between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2012. The starting date is either the date of the first clinical visit or the diagnosis of CRS. Patients were followed up until the first occurrence of target disease or the last date of medical record. Propensity score 1 to 2 matching was used to match pairs of patients with/without CRS.

RESULTS

A total of 951 380 eligible patients were included in our study, with 36 210 patients diagnosed with CRS. After 1 to 2 propensity score matching, non-CRS cohort consisted of 69 258 patients and CRS cohort consisted of 34 629 patients. CRS was associated with the risk of developing NPC (adjusted OR = 2.23; 95% CI, 1.61-3.09). However, no significant association among CRS and NPC was observed in patients followed up for more than 1 year (adjusted OR = 1.16; 95% CI, 0.76-1.78).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with CRS diagnosis have relationship with developing NPC within 1 year of follow-up, but not for longer intervals. The short-term association may be due to reversed causation or biased diagnosis. Accordingly, the study suggests CRS a weak role for NPC.

Lack of impact of radiologic septal measurements upon patient symptoms and performance of septoplasty during endoscopic sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

Recent literature suggests that concurrent septoplasty during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) improves patient outcomes, however, the underlying indications for performing concurrent septoplasty are unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between objective radiologic measures of nasal septal deviation with preoperative patient symptomatology and measures of CRS disease severity. We also sought to understand the association of objective radiologic measurements with surgeon performance of concurrent septoplasty during ESS.

METHODOLOGY

Seventy-four patients with CRS undergoing ESS were prospectively enrolled. Angles of septal deviation, intranasal areas and volumes were assessed on preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and correlated with a robust battery of patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs), objective measures of CRS severity including olfaction scores, radiologic and endoscopic staging, and performance of septoplasty.

RESULTS

Intranasal areas and volumes demonstrated only weak linear associations with patient-reported nasal congestion, however, angles of septal deviation alone did not correlate with congestion or any other PROM measure. Meanwhile, radiologic septal-related measurements did not correlate with objective measures of CRS disease severity or the performance of a concurrent septoplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

Though prior studies demonstrate improved patient outcomes in the setting of concurrent septoplasty during ESS, this study failed to establish an association between preoperative radiologic septal-related measurements and patient symptomatology or surgeon decision to perform septoplasty. Although objective factors to identify patients most likely to benefit from concurrent septoplasty remain unidentified, the potential improvement of surgical recommendations and patient outcomes makes this an important area of continued investigation.

Headache and rhinosinusitis: A review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To explain our current understanding of headache attributed to rhinosinusitis, an often inappropriately diagnosed secondary headache.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have shown that headache attributed to rhinosinusitis is often over-diagnosed in patients who actually have primary headache disorders, most commonly migraine. Failure to recognize and treat rhinosinusitis, however, can have devastating consequences. Abnormalities of the sinuses may also be treatable by surgical means, which may provide headache relief in appropriately selected patients.

SUMMARY

It is important for the practicing physician to understand how rhinosinusitis fits into the differential diagnosis of headache, both to avoid overdiagnosis in patients with primary headache, and to avoid underdiagnosis in patients with serious sinus disease.

Tolerability and effectiveness of povidone-iodine or mupirocin versus saline sinus irrigations for chronic rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVES

The role of topical anti-infectives in acute exacerbations of chronic rhinosinusitis is controversial. Povidone-iodine is an anti-bacterial and anti-viral that is affordable and available over-the-counter and may demonstrate advantages over mupirocin as a sinus irrigation therapy. The objective was to compare povidone-iodine or mupirocin versus saline sinus irrigations for sinusitis exacerbations in post-surgery subjects as well as to assess tolerability of povidone-iodine sinus irrigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective single-blinded (clinician only) randomized controlled trial. Subjects were post-surgery with acute exacerbations of chronic rhinosinusitis and gram-positive bacteria on culture. They received povidone-iodine, mupirocin, or saline sinus irrigations, twice daily for 30 days. Outcomes were post-treatment culture negativity (primary) and Sinonasal Outcome Test-20 and Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score change (secondary).

RESULTS

Of the 62 subjects analyzed, post-treatment culture negativity rate was higher in the MUP (14/20, 70%) group compared to the PI (9/21, 43%) and SAL (9/19, 47%) groups, although this was not significant (p = 0.29). Povidone-iodine sinus irrigations at the 1% concentration were very well-tolerated, similar to saline irrigations. There were no significant differences in Sinonasal Outcome Test-20 score (povidone-iodine -0.3 [-0.6, 0.05] vs. mupirocin -0.3 [-0.7, 0.05] vs. saline -0.4 [-0.8, 0.05]; p = 0.86) or Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score (povidone-iodine -3.5 [-7, -0.5] vs. mupirocin -2 [-4, 2] vs. saline -3 [-5, 0]; p = 0.45) change. No serious adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who have had prior sinus surgery with acute exacerbations of CRS and gram-positive bacteria on culture, mupirocin sinus irrigations achieved a better post-treatment culture "control" rate compared to saline and povidone-iodine. In addition, 1% povidone-iodine solution was well-tolerated as a sinus irrigation and may represent a feasible method for temporarily disinfecting the sinonasal cavity of bacteria and viruses such as COVID-19.

Patient-reported sleep outcomes lack association with mucosal eosinophilia or neutrophilia in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is associated with sleep dysfunction, but the underlying pathophysiology is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine if mucosal eosinophilia or neutrophilia were associated with sleep dysfunction severity or altered the improvement in sleep dysfunction following functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

METHODS

A total of 104 patients with medically refractory CRS with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) and CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP), completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) before and after FESS. Anterior ethmoid mucosa was collected during FESS and densest infiltrates of eosinophilia and neutrophilia per high-power field (HPF) were determined by microscopy. Eosinophilic (>10 eosinophils/HPF) and neutrophilic (>4 neutrophils/HPF) CRS were then compared to preoperative and postoperative PSQI measures.

RESULTS

Of 104 study participants, 88 (85%) reported preoperative PSQI scores consistent with "poor sleep," (PSQI total > 5). The cohort overall demonstrated significant improvement in poor sleep (65%; χ² = 12.03; p < 0.001) 16.8 ± 5.0 months after FESS. Regardless of nasal polyposis, neither eosinophilic nor neutrophilic CRS was associated with differences in mean postoperative PSQI improvement. However, in patients with neutrophilic CRSsNP, there was a significant relationship between severity of neutrophilia and improvement in sleep latency (R = -0.798, p = 0.003) and sleep efficacy (R = -0.777, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Chronic inflammation has been hypothesized to play a pathophysiologic role in sleep dysfunction associated with CRS. This study suggests that in patients with medically refractory CRS, evidence of mucosal eosinophilia and neutrophilia lack strong associations with patient-reported sleep dysfunction or improvements in sleep quality after FESS, overall. However, neutrophilia may impact sleep latency and efficacy in patients with CRSsNP.

High Discontinuation Rates of Peroral ASA Treatment for CRSwNP: A Real-World Multicenter Study of 171 N-ERD Patients

BACKGROUND

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) consists of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), asthma, and NSAID intolerance. Acetylsalicylic acid treatment after desensitization (ATAD) is a treatment option for uncontrolled N-ERD.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate peroral ATAD's long-term effectiveness on CRSwNP disease control.

METHODS

The retrospective data (patient characteristics, sinus surgeries before ATAD, ATAD, follow-up data [2019]) were collected from patient records of 171 patients with N-ERD (102 ATAD patients, 69 controls with CRSwNP+N-ERD without ATAD) who underwent tertiary hospital consultation from 2001 to 2017. Outcome measurements were ATAD discontinuation, revision sinus surgery, and corticosteroid and antibiotic courses for airway infections during 2016-2019. Associations were analyzed by survival and nonparametric methods.

RESULTS

The ATAD group had more tissue eosinophilia, symptoms, and sinus surgeries before ATAD than others. The ATAD discontinuation rate was 63%, independent of ATAD dose or duration, usually due to side effects. Compared with the N-ERD group without ATAD, ATAD (mean duration, 2.9 years) did not affect the revision endoscopic sinus surgery rate (P = .21, by the log-rank test) or the number of peroral corticosteroid courses per year (P > .05, by the Mann-Whitney U-test) during the follow-up (mean, 7.6 years) despite the dose or duration of ATAD.

CONCLUSIONS

The discontinuation rate of ATAD was high (63%), and ATAD did not affect revision sinus surgery rate nor the need of peroral corticosteroids during follow-up. However, the remaining 37% of the ATAD group did continue the treatment, indicating that they may have benefited from ATAD.

Numerical evaluation of spray position for improved nasal drug delivery

Topical intra-nasal sprays are amongst the most commonly prescribed therapeutic options for sinonasal diseases in humans. However, inconsistency and ambiguity in instructions show a lack of definitive knowledge on best spray use techniques. In this study, we have identified a new usage strategy for nasal sprays available over-the-counter, that registers an average 8-fold improvement in topical delivery of drugs at diseased sites, when compared to prevalent spray techniques. The protocol involves re-orienting the spray axis to harness inertial motion of particulates and has been developed using computational fluid dynamics simulations of respiratory airflow and droplet transport in medical imaging-based digital models. Simulated dose in representative models is validated through in vitro spray measurements in 3D-printed anatomic replicas using the gamma scintigraphy technique. This work breaks new ground in proposing an alternative user-friendly strategy that can significantly enhance topical delivery inside human nose. While these findings can eventually translate into personalized spray usage instructions and hence merit a change in nasal standard-of-care, this study also demonstrates how relatively simple engineering analysis tools can revolutionize everyday healthcare. Finally, with respiratory mucosa as the initial coronavirus infection site, our findings are relevant to intra-nasal vaccines that are in-development, to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ethmoid-to-maxillary opacification ratio: a predictor of postoperative olfaction and outcomes in nasal polyposis?

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory profiles for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) vary between North American and Asian populations. An elevated ethmoid-to-maxillary (E/M) opacification ratio on preoperative imaging is associated with certain postoperative outcomes in Asian populations and populations that are non-type 2 dominant. In this study we explore this factor in North American/type 2-based populations.

METHODS

Adult patients (n = 165) from a North American population with CRSwNP who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) were prospectively enrolled into an observational, multi-institutional study. The 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), Brief Smell Identification Test (BSIT), and Lund-Kennedy (LK) endoscopic scores were obtained pre- and postoperatively. Patients were stratified according to increasing E/M ratios based on Lund-Mackay (LM) scores.

RESULTS

On average, significant within-subject postoperative improvement was found in all patients for SNOT-22 total and domain scores, and also BSIT results (p ≤ 0.019). Preoperatively, elevated E/M ratio correlated with worse BSIT scores (r = -0.343, p < 0.001). Postoperatively, elevated E/M ratio correlated with BSIT improvement (r = 0.284, p = 0.002), but did not correlate with SNOT-22 improvement or polyp recurrence. An elevated E/M ratio was associated with greater likelihood of reporting a minimal clinically important difference in BSIT scores (χ² = 9.96, p = 0.041).

CONCLUSION

Elevated E/M ratios were found to associated with worse baseline olfaction and an increased likelihood of achieving a clinically meaningful postoperative improvement in olfaction in this North American population with CRSwNP. Elevated E/M ratios did not predict postoperative changes in SNOT-22 measures or polyp recurrence. This suggests that prognostic factors may vary according to geography and generalized inflammatory profiles (type 2 vs non-type 2) in patients with CRS.

Effects of Corticobasal Implant Protrusion inside the Nasal and Maxillary Sinus

Background

Implant protrusion into the nasal and maxillary sinuses presents a challenge in cases of severely resorbed maxillae.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic effects of BECES^® implant penetration depth into the nasal and maxillary sinuses.

Setting and Design

This was an observational study conducted in a tertiary institution.

Materials and Methods

Forty-nine BECES^® implants were inserted into the maxilla of patients who presented with severely resorbed ridges but no history of sinusitis. Forty-five implants protruded into the sinus cavities. Patients were examined clinically and radiographically at 1 week and 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after insertion. Maxillary sinus health, survival and success rates, and peri-implant health were assessed using the plaque index (PI), calculus index, modified gingival index (MGI), and probing pocket depth (PPD).

Statistical Analysis

Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann-Whitney test were used in this study.

Results

Four (8.16%) of the 45 implants that penetrated the cavities reached the sinus floor without disrupting the membrane; the penetration depth was ≥4 mm in 20 implants (44.44%) and <4 mm in 25 (55.56%). No patient showed clinical or radiographic signs of sinusitis during the observation period. There were significant differences in the PI, MGI, and PPD values between baseline and the 18-month follow-up with no association with the penetration depth. All implants showed radiographically direct bone-to-implant contact. Where the implant tip barely reached the sinus floor, the membrane healed uneventfully while when deeply penetrating the sinus, the membrane healed around the implant but did not cover the tip. All prostheses and implants survived during the observation period.

Conclusion

Penetration depth of polished implants with cortical engagement into the maxillary sinus or the floor of the nose does not negatively affect implant survival, the success rate of the treatment, nor peri-implant soft-tissue health. It also does not provoke the development of sinusitis.

The Impact of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux on Patient-reported Measures of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the impact of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) on quality-of-life outcomes captured by Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and patients with symptoms of LPR.

METHODS

In a retrospective chart review, SNOT-22 and RSI scores were analyzed in patients seen at a tertiary care center with CRS, LPR, or both CRS and LPR. SNOT-22 items were grouped into sleep, nasal, otologic, and emotional symptom subdomains.

RESULTS

A total of 138 patients (36 with CRS alone, 60 with LPR alone, and 42 with both CRS and LPR) were included. Compared to patients with CRS alone, those with CRS and LPR (CRS+LPR) had higher SNOT-22 total (50.54 ± 19.53 vs 35.31 ± 20.20, P < .001), sleep (19.61 ± 9.31 vs 14.42 ± 10.34, P < .022), nasal (17.38 ± 7.49 vs 11.11 ± 8.52, P < .001), otologic subdomains (9.17 ± 5.07 vs 5.53 ± 5.14, P < .002), and RSI (22.06 ± 9.42 vs 10.75 ± 8.43, P < .003). Patients with LPR alone had higher RSI compared to those with CRS (18.48 ± 9.77 vs 10.75 ± 8.43, P < .037). RSI and SNOT-22 scores were positively correlated irrespective of patient group (R = 0.289, P = .003).

CONCLUSION

Compared to patients with CRS or LPR alone, those with CRS+LPR demonstrated higher RSI and total and subdomain SNOT-22 scores. Patients with LPR alone had elevated SNOT-22 despite absent endoscopic evidence of sinusitis.

Odontogenic chronic rhinosinusitis patients undergoing tooth extraction: oral surgeon and otolaryngologist viewpoints and appropriate management

Objective

This study aimed to propose appropriate management for odontogenic chronic rhinosinusitis.

Method

Thirty-one adult patients with odontogenic chronic rhinosinusitis undergoing maxillary extraction were retrospectively analysed. Patients with (n = 21) and without (n = 10) oroantral fistula on computed tomography were classified. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery was performed when sinusitis did not improve after extraction. The critical indicators for surgical requirement in the management of odontogenic chronic rhinosinusitis were analysed.

Results

Sinusitis significantly improved after extraction in both groups. Patients without oroantral fistula had significantly more severe remnant sinusitis than those with oroantral fistula after extraction on computed tomography (p = 0.0037). The requirement for functional endoscopic sinus surgery was statistically significant for patients without orofacial fistula over those with orofacial fistula (p < 0.0001). The surgical improvement ratio was 93 per cent.

Conclusion

The absence of oroantral fistula and severe sinusitis can be critical indicators for the requirement of functional endoscopic sinus surgery after extraction in the management of odontogenic chronic rhinosinusitis.

Medical Management Strategies in Acute and Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis, historically, has been considered to be caused by upper airway anatomical abnormalities. However, today that concept has changed, for it is now recognized as an inflammatory disorder of the nasal and sinus mucosa. Acute rhinosinusitis is usually caused by a viral infection, whereas chronic rhinosinusitis is a persistent and heterogeneous inflammatory disorder with increased expression of type 1, 2, or 17 cytokines in the nasal and sinus mucosa, similar to that which occurs in asthma. Exacerbations are caused by aeroallergens in the allergic individual and irritants, pollutants, and viral/bacterial infections in all subjects. It may be categorized by phenotypes, examples of which include chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps or chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps. Defined endotypes are based on underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Knowledge of chronic rhinosinusitis endotypes will optimize management by employing targeted medical therapies. Understanding that rhinosinusitis is a heterogeneous inflammatory disease has led to the identification of a variety of different predisposing conditions, new medical treatment options, and the concept that rhinosinusitis is primarily a medical problem.

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor treatment could decrease chronic rhinosinusitis in diabetic patients

AIM

To evaluate the relationship between dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP4i) treatment and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in diabetic patients.

METHODS

We used the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database for this population-based and population-matched cohort design study. Chi-square and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to evaluate the association between categorical and continuous variables, respectively. The Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test was used to estimate the risk of CRS and DPP4i users.

RESULTS

A total of 6198 diabetic patients were included in this cohort study. DPP4i users had a lower risk of developing CRS. The risk of CRS was significantly lower in women, patients with a Diabetes Complications Severity Index score higher than 4, patients with comorbidities, and patients with higher cumulative defined daily dose in the DPP4i group.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study demonstrate that the use of DPP4i treatment could decrease CRS risk in diabetic patients in Taiwan.

A novel device combining acoustic vibration with oscillating expiratory pressure for the treatment of nasal congestion

BACKGROUND

Chronic nasal congestion affects 20% of the population with significant impact on quality of life. This study investigated the simultaneous administration of nasal acoustic vibration and oscillating expiratory pressure for the treatment of nasal congestion.

METHODS

Patients with chronic nasal congestion but without fixed anatomic obstruction participated in a prospective clinical study applying simultaneous acoustic vibrations and positive expiratory pressure to the nasal cavity twice daily over 5 weeks. Safety was assessed by rhinoscopy and patient questionnaires. Efficacy was assessed using peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF), visual analogue scale (VAS) of nasal symptoms, Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS), Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness (NOSE) score, and the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22).

RESULTS

Forty patients (mean age 39 years, 65% female) completed the study with no adverse effects. At the 2 week follow-up, PNIF improved by 25.0 L/min (31% increase from baseline, p < 0.001). At the 5 week follow-up, nasal congestion VAS improved from mean ± SD of 5.8 ± 2.4 to 2.6 ± 2.3, TNSS improved from 7.2 ± 3.5 to 3.5 ± 3.1, NOSE improved from 50.4 ± 19.9 to 23.3 ± 17.2, and SNOT-22 improved from 31.7 ± 20.3 to 14.2 ± 12.7, all p < 0.001. Eighty percent of patients would use the device again and 87.5% would recommend to others.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous administration of acoustic vibration and oscillating expiratory pressure appears to be a safe treatment for chronic nasal congestion. Results from this initial study are promising with regard to efficacy but will require further study.

Characterization of Sinus Disease in Patients with Yellow Nail Syndrome

Objective

Yellow nail syndrome (YNS) is characterized by the triad of thickened yellow nails, primary lymphedema, and respiratory manifestations including bronchiectasis, chronic cough, pleural effusions, and sinusitis. The purpose of this study is to describe the manifestations of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in patients with YNS and the comorbid manifestations.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients with YNS with CRS from January 1, 1998 to January 1, 2018 was conducted. Their symptoms, comorbidities, and labs were reviewed. The patient’s sinus computed tomography (CT) scans were then scored using the Lund–Mackay (LM) scoring system.

Result

Thirty-six patients met the inclusion criteria. The average LM score was 10.2 ± 0.5 (mean ± SD). Sinus involvement included “frothy” dependent sinus secretions in 32 of 36 subjects. The most common location of sinus involvement was the maxillary sinuses (85%), then posterior ethmoid (81%), anterior ethmoid (76%), sphenoid (74%), and frontal sinuses (54%). Comorbid chronic cough (86%), bronchiectasis (65%), lymphedema (39%), and pleural effusion (19%) were also identified. Three patients (8%) had immunodeficiencies.

Conclusion

This is the largest series describing the sinus manifestations of CRS in patients with YNS. Sinus CT scans showed frothy dependent secretions in the maxillary sinuses and posterior ethmoid sinuses most commonly. YNS patients with sinusitis more commonly presented with chronic cough or bronchiectasis than with pleural effusions or lymphedema. Otolaryngologists should consider the possibility of YNS in patients with CRS, chronic cough, yellow or thickened nail, and CT findings of frothy, dependent sinus secretions.

Olfactory cleft and sinus opacification differentially impact olfaction in chronic rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVES

Prior studies have indicated that olfactory cleft (OC) opacification correlates with olfaction in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, the results have been unclear in patients without polyps. The purpose of this study was to further explore the relationship between OC opacification, sinus opacification, and olfactory function in patients with CRS.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-eight patients with CRS were prospectively enrolled across five institutions. Olfactory function was evaluated using the Sniffin' Sticks tests (Burghardt, Wedel, Germany) and the 17-item Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD-NS). Computed tomography (CT) scans for each patient were acquired and Lund-Mackay scores recorded. Opacification of the OC was determined using OsiriX MD (Pixmeo, Bernex, Switzerland) and correlated with olfaction scores.

RESULTS

A total of 148 CRS patients, 73 CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and 75 CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), as well as 30 control subjects were enrolled. Overall OC opacification averaged 63.7% in CRS patients and 47.1% in control subjects (P < 0.001). In the overall cohort, OC opacification significantly correlated with threshold, discrimination, and identification (TDI) (r = -0.520; P < 0.001) and QOD-NS scores (r = 0.374; P < 0.001). CRSwNP patients demonstrated a significant correlation between OC opacification and TDI scores (r = -0.464; P < 0.001) but not the CRSsNP group (r = -0.143; P = 0.229). Lund-Mackay score correlated with TDI in both the CRSsNP (r = -0.300; P = 0.010) and CRSwNP (r = -0.271; P = 0.019) groups.

CONCLUSION

CT opacification is associated with olfactory dysfunction differentially based on nasal polyp status. Smell loss in CRSwNP correlated with both OC opacification and Lund-Mackay score, whereas CRSsNP correlated only with Lund-Mackay score, indicating different relationships between olfactory function and local inflammatory processes in these disorders.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2 Laryngoscope, 130:2311-2318, 2020.

Endoscopic sinus surgery improves aspirin treatment response in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease patients

BACKGROUND

Aspirin desensitization and treatment benefits most patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), although some patients fail therapy. Our objective was to assess whether recent endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) improved aspirin treatment outcomes in AERD patients who initially failed aspirin therapy.

METHODS

Outcomes of aspirin desensitization and treatment in AERD patients prospectively enrolled were assessed preoperatively and at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after ESS by determining changes in Asthma Control Test (ACT) and Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) scores and respiratory function. Biomarkers, including fractional excretion of nitric oxide (FeNO), spirometry, nasal inspiratory peak flow (NPF), immunoglobulin E (IgE), and eosinophil count, were measured.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients who benefited (responders) and 21 patients who failed (nonresponders) preoperative aspirin treatment with a distant history of ESS (mean, 48 months) were identified. Nonresponders were more likely to be African American (71%, p < 0.01) and have higher baseline IgE levels (252 kU/L vs 87 kU/L in responders, p < 0.01). 24 of the 40 patients (nine responders and 15 non-responders) required subsequent ESS and underwent another aspirin desensitization 3-4 weeks after ESS. All 24 patients tolerated a second round of aspirin desensitization and treatment. The primary aspirin therapy was associated with a significant increase in IgE in nonresponders, but there was no significant increase in IgE after the second aspirin desensitization and treatment.

CONCLUSION

Antecedent ESS enhances aspirin treatment responses in AERD patients and may convert patients who failed aspirin treatment before surgery to a more responsive phenotype after ESS. Patients with higher baseline serum IgE levels may benefit from ESS performed shortly before aspirin desensitization and therapy.

Efficacy of steroid-eluting stents in management of chronic rhinosinusitis after endoscopic sinus surgery: updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recently, there has been mounting evidence suggesting the efficacy of steroid-eluting stents (SES) for management of chronic rhinosinusitis after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). This meta-analysis serves to evaluate the efficacy of SES in improving postoperative outcomes after ESS.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed of PubMed for articles published between 1985 and 2018. The outcome variables were reported at, on average, 30 days postintervention.

RESULTS

Seven of the 76 published studies, all of which were industry-sponsored, were included for a collective cohort of 444 SES and 444 control sinuses. In patients who received SES vs controls, collective odds ratios (ORs) for postoperative need for intervention, surgery, and oral steroid were 0.45 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.33-0.62; p < 0.001), 0.30 (95% CI, 0.18-0.52; p < 0.001), and 0.58 (95% CI, 0.40-0.84; p = 0.004), respectively. In addition, collective ORs for frontal sinus ostia (FSO) patency, moderate-to-severe adhesion/scarring, and increase in polyp score were 2.53 (95% CI, 1.61-3.97; p < 0.001), 0.28 (95% CI, 0.13-0.59; p < 0.001), and 0.42 (95% CI, 0.25-0.74; p = 0.002), respectively. Collective mean differences for FSO/ethmoid inflammation and FSO diameter were -10.86 mm (p < 0.001) and +1.34 mm (p < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Aggregate evidence suggests that SES can improve ESS outcomes by reducing rates of postoperative intervention and recurrent polyposis and inflammation, while promoting FSO patency. All included and analyzed studies were industry-sponsored and ruling-out publication bias was not possible. Future independent and nonsponsored studies to further evaluate SES's long-term efficacy are warranted.