The Effectiveness of Budesonide Nasal Irrigation After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Asthma

The Efficacy of Budesonide as Intrapolyp Injection Agent in the Management of Type 2 CRSwNP

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of budesonide as an intrapolyp injection in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in comparison to control and systemic steroids.

METHOD

In a prospective double-blinded controlled randomized clinical trial, 150 patients with CRSwNP were divided into 3 groups in a ratio 1:1:1 where group (A) was given oral prednisolone 1 mg/kg tapered daily for 2 weeks, group (B) was given budesonide intrapolyp injection weekly for 5 consecutive weeks, and group (C) was given intrapolyp injection with saline as the control group. Patients were assessed upon Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) score, Total Nasal Polyp score (TNPS), Serum IgE, absolute eosinophilic count, and morning cortisol level before treatment, 1 week and 6 months after completing their treatment protocol.

RESULTS

SNOT 22 score improved significantly in all groups compared to those at baseline. Reduction in the oral and injection groups was much greater than the control group (P2 < 0.001), (P3 < 0.001), and the same trend concerning TNPS score (P2 < 0.001), (P3 < 0.001) but with no significant change in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Intrapolyp steroid injection is considered a safe and effective method in nasal polyposis with limited side effects in comparison to systemic steroids. Using Budesonide as an agent for intrapolyp injection appears to be promising. It's advisable in patients with multiple relapses or high-risk patients to avoid repeated courses of oral steroids.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2 Laryngoscope, 134:2085-2092, 2024.

The role of budesonide intrapolyp injection in the management of type 2 chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: a randomised clinical trial

PROBLEM

To assess the efficacy of budesonide intrapolyp injection in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

METHOD

Ninety patients were divided into three groups; group A was given oral prednisolone, group B was given budesonide intrapolyp injection weekly for five consecutive weeks and group C was given budesonide as nasal irrigation for one month. Patients were assessed using Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 22 score, total nasal polyp score, serum immunoglobulin E, absolute eosinophilic count, and morning cortisol level before treatment, one week and three months after completing their treatment.

RESULTS

Total nasal polyp score decreased significantly in all groups compared to those at baseline. Reduction in the oral and injection groups was greater than the wash group (p2 = 0.004), (p3 < 0.001), and the same trend concerning Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 22 score (p2 < 0.001), (p3 < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Budesonide is an effective agent used in intrapolyp injection with no documented systemic or visual side effects that has comparable results with oral steroids.

Incidence of hypocortisolism with long-term budesonide irrigation for chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Budesonide irrigations (BIs) are commonly used to control inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). In 2016 we reported an analysis of long-term BI with regard to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function. We present a follow-up analysis in a larger cohort of patients with longer follow-up.

METHODS

Patients were candidates for stimulated cortisol testing after regularly performing BI for CRS at least daily for ≥6 months. We retrospectively evaluated all patients who received stimulated cortisol testing at our center between 2012 and 2022. We correlated cortisol levels with the use of BI and other forms of corticosteroids.

RESULTS

We analyzed 401 cortisol test results in 285 patients. The mean duration of use was 34 months. Overall, 21.8% of patients were hypocortisolemic (<18 ug/dL) at first test. In patients who used only BI, the rate of hypocortisolemia was 7.5%, whereas in patients who also used concurrent oral and inhaled corticosteroids, the rate was 40% to 50%. Lower cortisol levels were associated with male sex (p < 0.0001) and concomitant use of oral and inhaled steroids (p < 0.0001). Duration of BI use was not significantly associated with lower cortisol levels (p = 0.701), nor was greater dosing frequency (p = 0.289).

CONCLUSION

Prolonged use of BI alone is not likely to cause hypocortisolemia in the majority of patients. However, concomitant use of inhaled and oral steroids and male sex may be associated with hypocortisolemia. Surveillance of cortisol levels may be considered in vulnerable populations who use BI regularly, particularly in patients using other forms of corticosteroids with known systemic absorption.

Management paradigms for chronic rhinosinusitis in individuals with asthma: An evidence-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant morbidity associated with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in individuals with asthma (CRSwA), there is a paucity of codified, evidence-based management strategies for CRS in this population.

METHODS

Using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Review Databases, a systematic review was performed covering management strategies for CRSwA. A total of 5903 articles were screened, and 70 were included for full-text analysis. After application of exclusion criteria, 53 articles comprised the qualitative synthesis. The level of evidence was graded and benefit-harm assessments, as well as value judgment and recommendations, were provided RESULTS: Strong evidence confirms the benefit of oral and topical medications on sinonasal-specific outcomes in individuals with CRSwA; there is low-grade evidence demonstrating that these agents improve lung function and/or asthma control. Moderate to strong evidence suggests that endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) improves both sinonasal- and asthma-specific quality of life. Although there is insufficient to low evidence to indicate that ESS improves pulmonary function in this population, data indicate a positive impact of this intervention on asthma control. Biologic medications strongly improve both subjective and objective sinonasal- and asthma-specific outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Evidence supports managing CRS in individuals with CRSwA in a stepwise fashion, starting with traditional nonbiologic oral and topical medication, and escalating to second-line treatments, such as ESS and biologics. Optimal treatment of individuals who have CRSwA often requires concurrent, directed management of asthma, as not all CRS interventions impact asthma status.

The Role of Corticosteroid Nasal Irrigations in the Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A State-of-the-Art Systematic Review

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a highly prevalent condition. CRS is usually managed with intranasal corticosteroids, useful both before as well as after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). However, the greatest drawback of these low-volume sprays is the inadequate delivery into the paranasal sinuses, even after ESS. Recent studies have shown that high-volume steroid nasal rinse (HSNR) has a significantly better penetration of the paranasal sinuses. The purpose of this state-of-the-art review is to systematically overview the current literature about the role of nasal rinses with steroids in CRS. Four authors examined four databases (Embase, Pubmed, Scielo, Cochrane). This review identified 23 studies answering 5 research questions. It included 1182 participants, 722 cases, and 460 controls. Available evidence suggests a potential positive effect of HSNR, which seems to be higher in CRS with nasal polyps. More well-designed studies are needed in order to obtain solid conclusions. The evidence is solid regarding the safety of this treatment modality in the short and long-term. We expect that this lack of severe negative effects will facilitate the acceptance of this treatment modality and the development of future studies.

Comparison of Conventional Nasal Douching with Corticosteroid Nasal Douching in Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients Post Surgery

Objectives

Chronic rhinosinusitis has a preponderance for recurrence even after functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Nasal Douching with saline has been used for decades as a treatment and as an adjunct following surgery. Steroid nasal wash has been introduced recently for the postoperative management of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of postoperative steroid irrigation in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with and without polyps.

Methods

This prospective study was done over a period of 2 years involving 70 chronic rhinosinusitis patients with and without nasal polyps who underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery. The patients were divided into two groups, in group A, patients were given saline nasal douching and in group B, the budesonide nasal douching. The 22-item Sinonasal Outcomes Test (SNOT-22) and Lund-Kennedy endoscopy scores were checked before and 1, 2, 4, and 6 months after the nasal irrigation.

Results

In group A, the mean SNOT-22 score improved from 52.5 ± 9.1 before irrigation to 22.1 ± 11.3 after 6 months of irrigation. The LK endoscopy score also improved from 7.2 ± 2.1 before irrigation to 2.1 ± 1.2 after 6 months. In group B, the mean SNOT-22 score improved from 48.9 ± 10.6 before irrigation to 19.8 ± 11.7 after 6 months of irrigation. The endoscopy score also improved from 6.9 ± 2.3 before irrigation to 1.5 ± 1.1 after 6 months. The mean SNOT-22 and Lund-Kennedy scores improved in both groups. Group B with budesonide irrigation was found to have improved significantly than the saline nasal irrigation group, however, the difference between the 2 groups was not significant.

Conclusion

Nasal douching with budesonide is an effective postoperative treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps. The addition of budesonide in douching improves the quality of life and reduces the chance of recurrence.

Comparison of sinus distribution between nasal irrigation and nasal spray using fluorescein-labelled in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis: A randomised clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare the potential sinus distribution between high-volume nasal irrigation and nasal spray in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients who have not undergone sinus surgery.

DESIGN AND SETTING

A randomised clinical study was conducted at the Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Department, Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for CRS. Thirty-eight patients met the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to receive nasal irrigation or nasal spray mixed with fluorescein sodium preoperatively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the mean difference in the staining score of fluorescein in all sinuses between the two groups.

RESULTS

The total fluorescein staining score for all sinuses in the nasal irrigation group was significantly higher than the score from the nasal spray group, with a mean difference score of 2.90, 95% confidence interval: 1.22-4.58, p = .001. The most significantly affected sinuses were the maxillary and the anterior ethmoid sinuses, while the frontal and sphenoid sinuses had only minimal staining from both techniques.

CONCLUSION

Nasal irrigation is a potential route to deliver drugs into the sinus in unoperated CRS patients. However, it is not considered a superior method to nasal spray in the most challenging anatomical areas, that is, the frontal and sphenoid sinuses.

The Nasal Innate Immune Proteome After Saline Irrigation: A Pilot Study in Healthy Individuals

BACKGROUND

Previous research has shown diminished nasal immune function following nasal saline irrigation (NSI), returning to baseline at 6 hours. The aim of this study was to examine the immune nasal proteome before and after 14 days of nasal irrigation.

METHODS

Seventeen healthy volunteers received either isotonic (IsoSal) or low salt (LowNa) NSI. Nasal secretions were collected before and 30 min after NSI at baseline and again after 14 days. Specimens were analyzed using mass spectrometry to detect proteins of relevance to nasal immune function.

RESULTS

One thousand eight hundred and sixty-five proteins were identified with significant changes in 71 proteins, of which 23 were identified as part of the innate immune system. Baseline analysis demonstrated an increase of 9 innate proteins after NSI, most after IsoSal. After 14 days, a greater increase in innate peptides was present, with most now in the LowNa group. When NSI solutions were compared, a significant increase in 4 innate proteins, including a 211% in lysozyme, was detected in the LowNa group.

CONCLUSION

LowNa NSI demonstrates evidence of improving the innate immune secretions, especially lysozyme, in healthy volunteers.

What is appropriate management for the contralateral uninvolved side in unilateral allergic fungal rhinosinusitis?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this article is to review the current literature regarding development of new or recurrent inflammation of uninvolved contralateral sinuses in unilateral allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) and discuss management strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

AFRS is a subtype of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) that can manifest as either unilateral or bilateral disease. Particular to AFRS compared with other CRSwNP subtypes is the high propensity for recurrence. Multiple recent studies have evaluated the recurrence rate of uninvolved contralateral sinuses in unilateral AFRS and demonstrated eventual involvement of the nondiseased side. Additionally, postoperative medical therapy of the nondiseased side reduced recurrence rates overall.

SUMMARY

Recurrence of AFRS is high in both the ipsilateral and contralateral sinuses. Upfront bilateral medical and/or surgical treatment of patients presenting with unilateral AFRS may be considered to improve long-term inflammatory control.

The Long-Term Effects of Budesonide Nasal Irrigation in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Asthma

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in asthmatic patients has a high recurrence rate even after surgery. For this reason, oral steroids are frequently used, but their long-term use may cause side effects. The purpose of this study is to investigate the long-term effects of budesonide nasal irrigation (BNI) in CRSwNP and asthma. An analysis of 33 patients with CRSwNP and well-controlled asthma, who performed BNI for more than 12 months, was performed. We compared oral steroid and antibiotic dosages as well as nasal endoscopy scores before, and every six months after, BNI. The six-month dosages of oral steroids and antibiotics prescribed were significantly decreased at all time points after BNI compared to before BNI. When the dosages were compared at the time point immediately preceding six months, oral steroid intake decreased significantly until 12 months, and antibiotic intake decreased until 6 months. Furthermore, the endoscopic score decreased significantly until 12 months. The nasal symptom questionnaire score also significantly improved after BNI. Therefore, BNI is considered an effective treatment method that can improve subjective symptoms and objective intranasal findings while reducing oral steroid and antibiotic doses after long-term use in patients with CRSwNP accompanied by asthma.

Effects of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Combined with Budesonide Treatment on Nasal Cavity Function and Serum Inflammatory Factors in Patients with Chronic Sinusitis

In this article, we have explored the effects of endoscopic sinus surgery together with budesonide treatment on nasal function and serum inflammatory factors on patients with chronic sinusitis. We retrospectively analyzed 120 patients with chronic sinusitis who were admitted to our hospital from March 2018 to March 2021 and were eligible for this study. They were separated into 2 groups according to different treatments, that is, the control group (treated with endoscopic surgery alone) of 58 cases and observation group (treated with endoscopic sinus surgery combined with budesonide) with 62 cases. Treatment efficacy, surgical status, overall symptom score before and after treatment, nasal mucociliary clearance function, serum eosinophils (EOS), serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), serum inflammatory factors, and occurrence of adverse reactions of both groups were recorded and compared. Total effective rate in the observation group presented strikingly more positive compared with that among patients in control group (P<0.05), as well as the data recorded in terms of operation time, blood loss during surgery and postoperative improvement time of patients (P<0.05). Overall symptom score, nasal mucociliary clearance, EOS, IgE and serum inflammatory factors in both groups were improved notably after treatment, while the observation group held a more obvious improvement. And it also had a markedly lower incidence of adverse reaction (P<0.05). Endoscopic sinus surgery combined with budesonide in the treatment of chronic sinusitis could effectively improve the clinical symptoms of patients, reestablish the function of the nasal cavity and improve their inflammation level. Meanwhile, it was of high safety and is worthy of clinical promotion.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Nasal Irrigation for Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Adults

The Korean Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Korean Rhinologic Society appointed a guideline development group (GDG) to establish a clinical practice guideline, and the GDG developed a guideline for nasal irrigation for adult patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The guideline focuses on knowledge gaps, practice variations, and clinical concerns associated with nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation has been recommended as the first-line treatment for CRS in various guidelines, and its clinical effectiveness has been demonstrated through a number of studies with robust evidence. However, no guidelines have presented a consistent nasal irrigation method. Several databases, including OVID Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed, were searched to identify all relevant papers using a predefined search strategy. When insufficient evidence was found, the GDG sought expert opinions and attempted to fill the evidence gap. Evidence-based recommendations for practice were ranked according to the American College of Physicians grading system. The committee developed 11 evidence-based recommendations. This guideline focuses on the evidence-based quality improvement opportunities deemed the most important by the GDG. Moreover, the guideline addresses whether nasal lavage helps treat CRS, what type of rinsing solution should be used, and the effectiveness of using additional medications to increase the therapeutic effect.

Updates on treatment options in aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim is to describe why this review is timely and relevant. Acetylsalicylic acid exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is a clinically significant disease affecting approximately 7% of all asthmatics or around 1,400,000 persons in the United States alone. A large portion of these patients remain undiagnosed. This review summarizes up to date knowledge on the pathophysiology, treatment opinions and provides an expert opinion on how to approach the AERD patient.

RECENT FINDINGS

Findings describe the main themes in the literature covered by the article. Review of the current knowledge in terms of the key cells, cytokines/chemokines contributing to the acquired disease state of AERD. It also provides clinical approach toward the AERD patient with regards to current treatment options.

SUMMARY

Summary describes the implications of the findings for clinical practice or research. This is an up-to-date review of the current literature, with insight into how to approach the management of an AERD patient.

Yardstick for the medical management of chronic rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory condition of the paranasal sinuses defined by classic symptoms, imaging findings, or endoscopic findings. There are a growing number of emerging pharmacologic therapies being evaluated to treat patients with CRS, some of which have gained indication status in the United States. There have not been updated treatment guidelines published in the United States however since 2014. This document is meant to serve as an updated expert consensus document for the pharmacologic management of patients with CRS. We review available data focusing on prospective clinical trials on oral and intranasal corticosteroids, nasal irrigation, biologics, antibiotics, and allergy immunotherapy for CRS both with and without nasal polyposis, including specific therapies for aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease-associated CRS and allergic fungal CRS. There are multiple options to treat CRS, and clinicians should be knowledgeable on the efficacy and risks of these available therapies. Allergists-immunologists now have various therapies available to treat patients with CRS.

Nasal irrigation with Glycyrrhiza glabra extract for treatment of allergic rhinitis - A study of in vitro, in vivo and clinical trial

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Glycyrrhiza glabra, a family of licorice and a traditional Chinese medicine with sweet taste and favorable smell, has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and immunomodulatory functions.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We developed a licorice extract (LE) by using glycyrrhiza glabra and administered it through nasal irrigation to treat allergic rhinitis (AR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

LE was prepared into extract powder, and the anti-inflammatory effect of the LE was evaluated by calcium ionophore-induced activated mast cell model (in vitro). Then, local passive anaphylaxis assays were applied to investigate the anti-IgE-mediated allergic reaction of the LE in mice (in vivo). A developed LE was administered through nasal irrigation to treat AR in clinic settings. A total of 60 participants diagnosed with AR were included in this clinical trial; they were randomly assigned to three interventions: licorice nasal irrigation (LNI), corticosteroid nasal irrigation (CNI), and saline nasal irrigation (SNI). They performed nasal irrigation once a day for 1 month. Both subjective questionnaires (22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test [SNOT-22] and visual analog scale [VAS]) and objective examinations (acoustic rhinometry and nasal endoscopy) were used for effectiveness assessments.

RESULTS

All three interventions could improve SNOT-22 scores, but the effects of LNI and CNI were more significant. According to VAS scores for nasal blockage, rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal pruritus, postnasal discharge, and olfactory disturbance, the effect of LNI was superior to those of CNI and SNI. The results of rhinometry revealed that LNI significantly improved nasal resistance. Endoscopic analysis showed that both LNI and CNI, but not SNI, could significantly improve turbinate hypertrophy. Moreover, the best procedural comfort was found for LNI, which had no side effects or complications during the trial.

CONCLUSIONS

LNI is a natural, safe, and innovative therapy that can effectively treat AR. Its effect is superior to those of CNI and SNI, and it has greatly improved procedural comfort.

Phenotypes of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a complex heterogeneous disease with different phenotypes and endotypes. Recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms of CRS endotypes have led to the introduction of effective biologic agents for CRS management. Traditionally, CRS phenotypes have been divided into with or without nasal polyps depending on the presence of polyps. Although this classification does not reflect the various endotypes that are recently emerging, it is simple and easily recognized by clinicians. Other phenotypes of CRS are fungal rhinosinusitis (including invasive and noninvasive subtypes), infectious rhinosinusitis, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, cystic fibrosis, pediatric CRS, and CRS associated with systemic diseases. This article reviews the diagnostic approaches and up-to-date treatment strategies for each CRS phenotype with the hope that a better understanding of endotypes will result in a more scientific understanding of phenotypes and precise, personalized treatments.

The subtle nuances of intranasal corticosteroids

Background

In the specialty of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, intranasal corticosteroids are the mainstay treatment for inflammatory processes within the nasal cavity. All too often, physician prescribing patterns are based on previous training, personal experience, and interactions with industry. The purpose of this commentary is to review the nuances of each intranasal corticosteroid.

Commentary

There are nine intranasal corticosteroids approved for use in Canada. Each are discussed in detail, including their indication, bioavailability, effects on intranasal environment, and factors around patient adherence. Off-label use of budesonide irrigations is also discussed and cost information is presented in reference format for all available intranasal corticosteroids.

Conclusion

Although the efficacy of each intranasal corticosteroid has been shown to be similar, prescribing should be tailored based on bioavailability, intranasal environment, and factors that impact patient adherence such as dosing, cost and tolerability.

Graphical abstract

Use of Off-Label Nasal Steroid Irrigations in Long-Term Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVE

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory disease of the paranasal sinuses and mucosa. Topical nasal corticosteroids are a mainstay treatment for CRS by reducing sinonasal inflammation and improving mucociliary clearance. However, topical corticosteroids have limited paranasal distribution, and patient response to treatment has been variable in randomized controlled trials (RCT). Thus, there is significant interest in evaluating the efficacy of nasal steroids delivered by nasal irrigation in order to improve penetration and absorption of topical steroids into the sinonasal mucosa. In this review, we discuss the use of off-label nasal steroid irrigations in the management of CRS.

METHODS

A review of clinical trials evaluating the use of nasal steroid irrigations for CRS in the PubMed electronic database was performed.

RESULTS

Of the 12 clinical studies identified, 10 evaluated budesonide irrigations while the remaining 2 focused on mometasone. The overwhelming majority of studies for both budesonide and mometasone supported the use of nasal irrigations with corticosteroids over nasal corticosteroid sprays alone. However, the heterogeneity in study design, patient cohort, and volume of steroid irrigation limit the interpretations of these studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Nasal irrigation with corticosteroids is beneficial and safe for the treatment of CRS. Future RCTs controlling for type of surgical intervention, CRS pheno- and endo-type, as well as dosing and duration of nasal corticosteroid irrigations are warranted.

A Scholarly Review of the Safety and Efficacy of Intranasal Corticosteroids Preparations in the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this scholarly review is to present an update of the efficacy, safety, and distribution of intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) in the context of treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review from 1999 to 2020 of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE databases was performed, using a comprehensive search strategy. Studies reporting on efficacy, safety, and distribution of all INCS formulations, both Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and non-FDA approved, were reviewed.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

High-level evidence publications and position papers support the role of INCS in medical treatment for CRS. Significant improvement in disease-specific and general quality of life measures is observed with all formulations of INCS. Overall, the use of both FDA and published non-FDA INCS appears to be safe. Several novel distribution devices might improve penetration to specific areas within the sinuses.

Positional Installation of Intranasal Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Systematic Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVES

First-line treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis includes topical corticosteroids aimed at decreasing inflammation of sinonasal mucosa. No guidelines exist regarding the effect of head position during administration of corticosteroids. We hypothesize certain positions enhance delivery to the paranasal sinuses, with further improvement in delivery after sinus surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted using Medline Ovid, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases. All studies evaluating intranasal medications administered in 2 or more head positions were included. Study population, head position(s), method/volume of delivery, and outcome metrics were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies compared head positions and their role in distribution of intranasal medication. Of 12 papers studying surgically naive subjects, 6 found improvement in delivery to specific sinonasal regions (middle meatus; lateral, superior, or posterior nasal cavity) and/or symptomatic improvement, in the lying head back (LHB) or head down and forward (HDF) positions, but only 3 reached statistical significance. Of 12 papers studying surgically altered patients, 10 found delivery improved in the HDF, LHB, and head forward 45° or 90° positions. Of 5 studies of extended frontal sinus procedures (Draf IIb/III), a majority found distribution to the frontal sinus improved with the head forward 90° position. Patients found the HDF position most uncomfortable.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies found no statistically significant difference in distribution to unoperated sinuses among different head positions. A minority of studies supported the use of the LHB and HDF positions. This suggests that in surgically naive patients, intranasal corticosteroid delivery to sinonasal regions and/or symptomatic improvement may be best achieved with the sinuses positioned inferior to the delivery device. Surgery improved distribution to the paranasal sinuses regardless of head position, although tilting the head forward 90° was particularly effective in delivery to the frontal sinus after extended frontal sinus procedures.

Clinical Research Needs for the Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps in the New Era of Biologics: A National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Workshop

The development of biologics targeting various aspects of type 2 inflammation for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) will provide clinicians with powerful tools to help treat these patients. However, other therapies are also available, and positioning of biologics in a management algorithm will require comparative trials. In November 2019, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases convened a workshop to consider potential future trial designs. Workshop participants represented a wide spectrum of clinical specialties, including otolaryngology, allergy, and pulmonary medicine, as well as expertise in CRSwNP pathophysiology and in trial methodology and statistics. The workshop discussed the current state of knowledge in CRSwNP and considered the advantages and disadvantages of various clinical trial or observational study designs and various clinical outcomes. The output from this workshop, which is presented in this report, will hopefully provide investigators with adequate information and ideas to design future studies and answer critical clinical questions. It will also help clinicians understand the current state of the management of CRSwNP and its gaps and be more able to interpret the new information to come.

Chinese Society of Allergy and Chinese Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Guideline for Chronic Rhinosinusitis

The current document is based on a consensus reached by a panel of experts from the Chinese Society of Allergy and the Chinese Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rhinology Group. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) affects approximately 8% of Chinese adults. The inflammatory and remodeling mechanisms of CRS in the Chinese population differ from those observed in the populations of European descent. Recently, precision medicine has been used to treat inflammation by targeting key biomarkers that are involved in the process. However, there are no CRS guidelines or a consensus available from China that can be shared with the international academia. The guidelines presented in this paper cover the epidemiology, economic burden, genetics and epigenetics, mechanisms, phenotypes and endotypes, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, management, and the current status of CRS in China. These guidelines-with a focus on China-will improve the abilities of clinical and medical staff during the treatment of CRS. Additionally, they will help international agencies in improving the verification of CRS endotypes, mapping of eosinophilic shifts, the identification of suitable biomarkers for endotyping, and predicting responses to therapies. In conclusion, these guidelines will help select therapies, such as pharmacotherapy, surgical approaches and innovative biotherapeutics, which are tailored to each of the individual CRS endotypes.

Therapeutic Potential of Dupilumab in the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps: Evidence to Date

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) is one of the most severe forms of chronic rhinosinusitis. CRSwNP is characterized by nasal and facial congestion, loss of sense of smell, rhinorrhea, and post-nasal drip. Treatments have been ineffective at controlling disease recurrence, despite multiple courses of medical and surgical therapies. Oral glucocorticoid therapy is often used to control exacerbations leaving the patient exposed to steroid-induced adverse effects. Thus, there is a clear unmet need for new treatments to achieve better control of the disease. Advances in understanding Type 2 inflammatory processes that occur in about 80% of the Western world patients with CRSwNP have resulted in new avenues for disease control. Biologics in the form of monoclonal antibodies, which target Type 2 inflammation, have helped control the severest forms of atopic dermatitis and asthma. Treatment regimes for CRSwNP now include biologics. In July 2019, dupilumab was the first monoclonal antibody to gain FDA approval for the treatment of CRSwNP. In this review, we summarize the proof of concept clinical trials and Phase 3 trials leading to approval of dupilumab, an anti-IL4 alpha receptor antagonist that blocks the actions of both IL4 and IL13. These studies show that dupilumab is a proven treatment option to control disease. Collective studies demonstrate a high safety profile. Questions arise as to the best use of dupilumab in the context of current treatment paradigms, and for which sub-population of the varied heterogeneous endotypes of CRSwNP patients. Recognizing the high cost of biologics forces the need for cost-effectiveness analysis.

Topical corticosteroid irrigations in chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has previously been thought to occur secondary to infectious or obstructive etiologies. However, in recent years, primary CRS has been more discretely defined as diffuse airway inflammation, similar to asthma. Adequate medical and surgical therapy are needed to control the inflammation. Our purpose in this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical corticosteroid treatment.

METHODS

A focused literature review was conducted and we identified 11 original articles from the years 2013-2018 evaluating safety or efficacy of topical corticosteroid irrigations.

RESULTS

Eleven articles were identified. One study found significant benefit between corticosteroid irrigations versus corticosteroid sprays. Two studies found significant benefit between corticosteroid irrigations compared to saline irrigations while two did not. One study found significant improvement in certain patient populations when using corticosteroid irrigations compared to no irrigation. Five studies found no significant increase in risk of adverse side effects with the use of topical corticosteroids.

CONCLUSION

Many factors are associated with efficacious and adequate treatment of primary CRS. The pathology must be correctly diagnosed and be inflammatory in nature. The treatment paradigm should include wide and complete endoscopic sinus surgery for the adequate delivery of topical therapy. Topical therapy should be delivered in large-volume, low-pressure devices with adequate dosing. Although there is some systemic absorption, multiple studies have demonstrated that long-term, daily use of topical corticosteroids does not increase intraocular pressure, suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, or increase the risk of subcapsular cataracts. Therefore, topical corticosteroid irrigations should be considered a part of first-line medical treatment in postsurgical CRS patients.

Revision surgery rates in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: meta-analysis of risk factors

BACKGROUND

Wide variations in revision endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) rates for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) have been reported. It is important to understand expected revision rates and factors that impact the need for revision.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed on studies that reported revision surgery data for CRSwNP patients.

RESULTS

Forty-five studies with 34,220 subjects were meta-analyzed, with an overall revision rate of 18.6% (95% confidence interval, 14.1%-23.6%). Studies with extractable follow-up data reported a mean revision rate of 16.2% over a weighted mean follow-up of 89.6 months. Factors associated with increased revision rates included allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (28.7%), aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (27.2%), asthma (22.6%), prior polypectomy (26.0%), and publication prior to 2008 (22.7%) (p < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Although polyps can recur after ESS, reported long-term ESS revision rates are approximately 14% to 24%. Identifying risk factors for revision surgery can help manage patient expectations and determine optimal personalized treatments.

Comparison of the Modified Version of DRAF III to the Conventional DRAF III: A 5 Year Study

A modification is made to the conventional way of doing Draf III by completely avoiding burrs by using only gouges and punches to reduce the postoperative narrowing followed by local instillation of budesonide solution. The results are compared. The comparison was made in terms of surgical duration, frontal ostium size, and recurrence of pathology. This is a prospective non-randomised comparative study in a private practice setting. 25 patients (15 males and 10 females) who underwent Draf III surgery between April 2012 and March 2017 were included in the study. Among them, 14 patients were assigned surgery only with punches and gouges. All the patients were given budesonide nasal instillation postoperatively. Outcomes measured included surgical duration, frontal neo-ostium size and, recurrence of pathology. They were followed up for a period of 14 months. The Student's independent t test and χ2 test for independence of attributes were used for statistical analysis. The mean surgical duration for modified Draf III was significantly shorter than conventional Draf III (p value < 0.01). The frontal ostium remained patent in modified Draf III than the Draf III using burrs with a statistical significance (p value < 0.01). The number of cases reporting the absence of recurrence was significantly higher (p value < 0.001) in modified Draf III. Modified Draf III technique, which completely avoids the burr, takes only lesser surgical duration, keeps the frontal ostium patent and drastically reduces recurrence of pathology. Combining postoperative budesonide instillation after modified Draf III helps in achieving promising results.

The role of doxycycline in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

INTRODUCTION

Many theories on the pathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) exist. The most effective management of CRSwNP has not been elucidated. Doxycycline, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, has shown durable effects; however, its efficacy in combination with standard therapy has not been examined. We hypothesized that its addition to the standard anti-inflammatory regimen would improve patient outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at a tertiary level institution. Patients with moderate or severe CRSwNP were randomized into two groups, each receiving a 20-day course of oral corticosteroids and doxycycline or placebo. The 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), nasal polyp scores, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were recorded at the initial, 3-, 8- and 12-week visits.

RESULTS

49 patients were enrolled, 24 in the experimental and 25 in the placebo group with 3 moderate disease patients in each group. There were 12 dropouts in the treatment group and 14 in the placebo group. The most common reasons for dropout were severe CRS and asthma exacerbations. There was no significant difference in SNOT-22 scores, nasal polyp scores, and VAS scores between the two arms.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-surgical management of patients with CRSwNP remains challenging. Our conclusions are limited given the high dropout rate and thus, limited sample size with inadequate power. This study is important, however, because a high dropout rate of mostly severe disease patients may illustrate that this patient population may not be optimally managed with medical therapy alone.

Chronic Rhinosinusitis without Nasal Polyps in Asian Patients Shows Mixed Inflammatory Patterns and Neutrophil-Related Disease Severity

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) shows heterogeneous immunologic features. Western studies revealed that CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) showed a predominantly type 1 immune response and CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) was characterized by type 2 immune response; however, the detailed immunologic profile of CRSsNP in Asian patients has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, we investigated the inflammatory endotypes of CRSsNP in Asian patients. Patients with CRSsNP (N = 57), patients with CRSwNP (N = 13), and a control group (N = 10), who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery, were enrolled; uncinate process (UP) tissues were harvested from all patients. Homogenates were prepared from the UP of each group, and immunologic profiles were analyzed, including major cytokines (32 inflammatory mediators). When comparing the UPs between groups, CRSsNP patients showed higher levels of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13), eosinophilic chemokines (CCL-11 and CCL-24), ECP, and total IgE expression than control subjects. In addition, several neutrophilic markers (IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, CXCL-1, CXCL-2, and MPO), IL-17A, IL-22, and TNF-α were dominant in CRSsNP patients. Among these inflammatory mediators, IL-17A showed higher expression levels in CRSsNP patients than in the control group and CRSwNP patients. However, IFN-γ expression was not significantly elevated in CRSsNP patients. The levels of neutrophil-associated cytokines were well correlated with each other; of which, CXCL2, IL-8, and MMP-9/TIMP-1 levels were significantly correlated with disease extent (r = 0.338, r = 0.317, and r = 0.424, respectively). However, the levels of eosinophil-associated cytokines showed little correlation with each other and were not correlated with disease extent. Our study revealed that Asian CRSsNP patients showed a mixed (types 2 and 17) immune response, but neutrophil-related markers were dominant and associated with disease extent. Knowledge of this immunologic feature may help clinicians make better individual treatment decisions for Asian CRSsNP patients.

How does sinus surgery affect topical irrigation distribution?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The current article reviews the literature on the distribution of nasal irrigation in the treatment of chronic sinusitis, especially in how sinus surgery and irrigation techniques affect its delivery to the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

RECENT FINDINGS

Nasal irrigation has become a useful tool in the treatment of chronic sinusitis. Used after endoscopic surgery of the paranasal sinuses, irrigation has shown to be effective in improving edema and removing crusts and secretions in that place. However, some relevant points have been considered in the surgical technique and in the postoperative period to improve irrigation access to the paranasal sinuses such as the amplitude of the sinus ostial opening, irrigation volume and device used, as well as head position during irrigation.

SUMMARY

Postoperative lavage of the paranasal sinus is a recognized adjuvant in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis, reducing morbidity and improving local healing, besides allowing the association of topical medications that can be carried to the paranasal sinuses along with the saline increasing the reach of these drugs. Detailed attention to the techniques described in this review improves the distribution of irrigation in the paranasal sinuses after sinus surgery and considerably increases the efficacy of this therapy.

Post-operative corticosteroid irrigation for chronic rhinosinusitis after endoscopic sinus surgery: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recently, topical steroid therapy delivery using high-volume sinonasal irrigations has been used more frequently, following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), to improve drug delivery into the paranasal sinuses.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to perform a systematic review with meta-analysis of the efficacy of steroid nasal irrigation on post-operative management of Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) following ESS.

METHODS

Five databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database) from inception to March 2017 were independently reviewed by two researchers. Studies that scored CRS endoscopic findings and CRS-related quality of life (QOL) post-operatively before and after steroid nasal irrigation and that compared the effects of steroid nasal irrigation (treatment groups) with saline alone irrigation (control group) were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Twelve studies (n = 360) met inclusion criteria. Steroid nasal irrigation significantly reduced the endoscopic score compared with pre-treatment values and also improved QOL. Adverse effects following steroid nasal irrigation such as increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis disturbance were not significant. However, compared with saline alone irrigation, the additional effects of steroid irrigation were not significant in the view of the endoscopic score and disease-specific QOL.

CONCLUSION

Although steroid nasal irrigation would not induce adverse effects related to systemic steroid absorption, the beneficial effects of additional steroids in saline irrigation were ambiguous in regard to endoscopic score and CRS-related QOL improvement compared with saline alone irrigation. However, further clinical trials with robust research methodologies should be conducted to confirm the results of this study.

Randomized controlled trial of steroid-soaked absorbable calcium alginate nasal packing following endoscopic sinus surgery

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate the potential efficacy of steroid-soaked, absorbable calcium alginate nasal packing following endoscopic sinus surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.

METHODS

Twenty-two patients (44 nostrils) who had chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps underwent bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery. Only those with an intersinus difference in Lund-Mackay severity score of 1 or less were included. In each patient, one randomly selected nostril was packed with calcium alginate soaked with 2 mL of triamcinolone (40 mg/mL) (triamcinolone group), whereas the contralateral nostril received an identical packing soaked in 2 mL of normal saline (saline group). Two independent investigators blinded to the packing allocation scored the surgical field using the validated Perioperative Sinus Endoscopy (POSE) scores 1, 4, and 8 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

All 44 nostrils were analyzed; the Lund-Mackay scores did not differ significantly between the groups before surgery. Eight weeks after surgery, the total POSE scores were significantly lower in the triamcinolone group (P = .014). The POSE scoring parameters were then compared between groups, and the following variables were significantly different: middle turbinate synechiae with the lateral wall (P = .037), polypoid degeneration of the ethmoid cavity (P = .006), and sphenoid sinus severity (P = .036).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that steroid-soaked, absorbable nasal packing can be used to enhance wound healing after endoscopic sinus surgery and to prevent polypoid changes in the nasal mucosa.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1b. Laryngoscope, 128:311-316, 2018.

Contralateral sinus involvement of surgically treated unilateral allergic fungal rhinosinusitis

Recurrence of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) is well recognized. However, there is scarcity in the literature describing involvement of the non-diseased sinuses. We aimed to evaluate the recurrence forms of unilateral AFRS as well as to study the possible predictor factors of developing the disease in the contralateral side. Patients with exclusive unilateral AFRS from (2010 to 2015) were enrolled in multi-institutional case-control study. All patients were evaluated after endoscopic sinus surgery for recurrence. Patient's records were reviewed for demographics, medical treatment, and clinical, radiological, and surgical data. A total of 68 patients were identified. Delayed contralateral involvement after the initial surgery was found in 30.8% with mean duration of recurrence 16.9 months. A significant association was found with the presence of pre-operative contralateral symptoms and signs of inflammation (OR 3.49, 95% CI 1.19-10.22, p value 0.02). Post-operative use of budesonide irrigation was associated with less contralateral involvement (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.01-0.87, p value 0.01). Association of other variables like: comorbidities, perioperative use of systemic steroid, radiological signs, extent of surgery, additional surgery to the contralateral side, and post-operative use of systemic steroids did not show statistical significance. Involvement of the contralateral sinuses in 30% of unilateral AFRS cases is considered significant. The non-diseased sinuses should be involved in the routine endoscopic examination and post-operative treatment. Further studies are necessary to investigate the possibility of prophylactic surgical intervention of the non-diseased sinuses.

Endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: Clinical outcome and predictive factors of recurrence

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a highly prevalent disease of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus, but its exact etiology is still unclear and remains a difficult-to-treat condition.

HYPOTHESIS

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is an effective treatment for medically recalcitrant CRSwNP. There are independent variables that can predict surgical outcomes in patients with CRSwNP.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate ESS efficacy in CRSwNP treatment and to establish prognostic factors for disease recurrence.

METHODS

Eighty-five patients with CRSwNP submitted to ESS, and a minimum follow-up of 9 months was selected. Patient demographics, occupational organic exposure (e.g., cotton, fuel gas, wood dust) and inorganic dust exposure (e.g., bleach, metals, cement), comorbidities, previous nasal surgeries, pre- and postoperative symptoms, ear, nose and throat examination findings, computed tomography results, and medical and surgical treatment information were collected from medical records. Statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

All rhinologic symptoms improved after surgery, in a statistically significant way, with the best recovery rate for nasal obstruction and the worst for hyposmia. The major and minor complications rates were 1.2 and 15.3%, respectively. Disease recurrence occurred in 31% of the patient, but only 7% required surgical reintervention. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified occupational dust exposure (p = 0.001) and non-immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated asthma (p = 0.012) as independent predictive variables in CRSwNP recurrence, unlike the other tested variables: age, sex, IgE-mediated asthma, allergic rhinitis, smoking habits, nasal polyps endoscopic grade, Lund-Mackay score, and postoperative topical corticoid use. The adjusted logistic model presented a good discriminatory capacity with a receiver operating characteristic area under the curve of 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.73-0.91; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

ESS proved to be an effective treatment in CRSwNP but with a considerable rate of recurrence. These results indicated an important correlation of occupational dust exposure and non-IgE-mediated asthma with disease recurrence.