The burden associated with ocular symptoms in allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Ocular symptoms remain widely neglected while they concern the majority of subjects with allergic rhinitis (AR) and impair their daily activities. We describe the characteristics of ocular symptoms in subjects suffering from AR in the French INSTANT study and their impact on daily activities.

METHODS

This cross-sectional observational survey was carried out in November 2006 using face-to-face interviews.

RESULTS

31.7% of the population-based sample (n = 4,019) suffered from AR and 52.0% of AR subjects (n = 663) described ocular symptoms. Men had significantly less ocular symptoms than women (odds ratio 0.71, 95% CI 0.57-0.89). 57.5% of subjects suffered from ocular symptoms for >5 years, 30.2% for >6 months in the past 12 months, and 92.2% during the pollen season. The troublesome ocular symptoms were itching eyes (51.1%), watery eyes (38.6%), red eyes (6.6%) and swollen eyelids (3.6%). The trigger factors were pollens (51.3%), household dust and mites (34.8%), pets (12.2%) and air pollution (3.8%). Ocular symptoms had a negative impact on daily activities (blurred sight 47.8%, reduction in daily activities 38.8%, reduction in efficacy at work 25.8%, sleep disturbances 16.3%, and sick leave 12.9%). They were diagnosed in 38.9% of subjects and followed up in 34.8%. Treatment for ocular symptoms was prescribed to 35.4% of subjects and to 61.9% of subjects with a regular follow-up care.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey confirms the impact of ocular symptoms on AR patients' lives and suggests that they are still neglected and undertreated.

Altered quality of life in Rendu-Osler-Weber disease related to recurrent epistaxis

OBJECTIVES

Development and validation of an epistaxis-specific quality-of-life questionnaire (EQQoL) to evaluate the impact on quality of life of epistaxis, during hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective clinical study using QoL instruments administered twice in HHT patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In total, 109 patients who had epistaxis and a clinical diagnosis of HHT according to Curacao criteria were included. Invoice of the questionnaire in 2004 and 2006 included SF-36, Jenkins` sleep scale and the new epistaxis-specific13-item EQQoL.

RESULTS

EQQoL uptake rate was 98%, mean score 58/100 +- 27, and Cronbach alpha 0.96. EQQoL was sensitive to change with a strong correlation with the course of epistaxis. Factorial analysis showed that EQQoL was clearly distinct from SF-36 and Jenkins sleep scales. In stepwise multivariate ordinal logistic regression, frequency and duration of epistaxis were both associated with lower EQQoL. Conversely, visceral involvement and comorbidity had independent impact on SF-36 scores, but not on EQQoL.

CONCLUSIONS

This new epistaxis-specific EQQoL questionnaire provides complementary information on the impact of HHT on patients quality of life relative to the SF-36 generic questionnaire. After international validation, the EQQoL might prove a useful tool for treatment evaluation.

Presentation and treatment of acute maxillary sinusitis in general practice: a French observational study

This survey-based study was conducted to determine the characteristics that influence the diagnosis and treatment patterns of acute maxillary sinusitis among general practitioners in France. Questionnaires were sent to 467 physicians and requested to be completed for the next 4 adult (≥ 15 years) patients diagnosed with acute maxillary sinusitis. A total of 397 physicians responded with eligible data on 1585 patients (57.5% female; mean age, 42.3 years). The most common presenting signs and symptoms were moderate-to-severe nasal obstruction (80.4%), pain on sinus palpitation (76.8%), facial pain (74.5%), rhinorrhea (70.4%), and headache (63.6%). Local treatments were prescribed in 93.2% of cases, including nasal lavage (52.1%), vasoconstrictors (42.2%), and intranasal corticosteroids (38.7%). Almost all patients (99%) were prescribed oral treatment including antibiotics (86.5%), analgesics (56.3%), antipyretics (53.7%), and expectorants/mucolytics (45.6%). Symptoms were indicated as having a moderate to very significant effect on quality of life areas including activities of daily living (71.6% of patients), leisure (63.1%), and professional/school activities (59.2%). The diagnosis and management patterns of acute maxillary sinusitis among general practitioners in France are generally consistent with the 2007 European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps (EP3OS) guidelines.

Development and implementation of guidelines in allergic rhinitis – an ARIA-GA2LEN paper

The links between asthma and rhinitis are well characterized. The Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guidelines stress the importance of these links and provide guidance for their prevention and treatment. Despite effective treatments being available, too few patients receive appropriate medical care for both diseases. Most patients with rhinitis and asthma consult primary care physicians and therefore these physicians are encouraged to understand and use ARIA guidelines. Patients should also be informed about these guidelines to raise their awareness of optimal care and increase control of the two related diseases. To apply these guidelines, clinicians and patients need to understand how and why the recommendations were made. The goal of the ARIA guidelines is to provide recommendations about the best management options for most patients in most situations. These recommendations should be based on the best available evidence. Making recommendations requires the assessment of the quality of available evidence, deciding on the balance between benefits and downsides, consideration of patients’ values and preferences, and, if applicable, resource implications. Guidelines must be updated as new management options become available or important new evidence emerges. Transparent reporting of guidelines facilitates understanding and acceptance, but implementation strategies need to be improved.

Physician and patient survey of allergic rhinitis in France: perceptions on prevalence, severity of symptoms, care management and specific immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

Specific immunotherapy (SIT) is the only aetiological treatment used in allergic rhinitis (AR). A telephone survey of patients and physicians in France was carried out to understand better the real and perceived advantages and inconveniences of this therapeutic approach.

METHODS

A cohort of 453 individuals with AR was selected using the Score For Allergic Rhinitis questionnaire. The survey evaluated the level of understanding of allergic rhinitis and its management, including both pharmacotherapy and SIT. A parallel survey was conducted with 400 general practitioners, allergists and nonallergist specialists.

RESULTS

Approximately 50% of patients had heard about SIT as a therapeutic option. Of these, 56% had a positive view of SIT and 14% a negative image. A majority of patients and physicians with a positive opinion associated SIT with improved well-being and quality of life, while those with a negative opinion considered it to be a long and inconvenient treatment, with uncertain results. Over 50% of patients who had been offered SIT had accepted it and approximately 60% of these were satisfied with it. The future availability of SIT as sublingual tablets was perceived positively by both patients and physicians.

CONCLUSIONS

Many patients with AR are unaware of their pathology and few seek help from health professionals. When patients take medication, they are generally satisfied with their treatment, even if it is only symptomatic. Patients and physicians see the notion of definitive recovery as the main benefit of SIT, whereas the main disadvantage is the duration of treatment.

[Role of imaging in the pre-treatment assessment and post-treatment follow-up of sinonasal malignancies]

Malignant sinonasal tumors are the most frequent facial malignancies in adults. Assessment of these tumors requires a multidisciplinary approach and imaging plays a major role to define the precise tumor location, volume and extension and to plan post-treatment follow-up. MRI provides superior differentiation between tumor and surrounding tissues and depiction of intracranial or perineural extension. CT is a useful complement to demonstrate bone erosion or extension into the skull base.

Nasal polyposis: is there an inheritance pattern? A single family study

BACKGROUND

Nasal Polyposis (NP) is defined as a chronic inflammatory disease of sinonasal mucosa leading to diffuse formation of benign polyps. Although family histories are frequently suggested in medical literature, no specific study focused on this point has been reported. The purpose of this study is to determine whether a hereditary factor could be implied for NP in a family where several members were affected. We included 99 members of this family.

METHODS

All patients were assessed for conditions known to be associated with the development or presence of NP. Concerning NP, patients were screened with a validated questionnaire and selected patients had a medical examination by an Ear, Nose and Throat practitioner.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients had a personal history of NP without asthma, aspirin intolerance, Churg Strauss syndrome, cystic fibrosis, Young's syndrome, bare lymphocyte syndrome, or primary ciliary dyskinesia. Within this family, 19.7% of those older than 17 years were affected by NP, as compared with the national French prevalence of 2.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Regarding the pedigree, we discuss different modes of inheritance. The presence of consanguineous unions in this family suggests the possibility of a common ancestor and thus a recessive autosomal mode of inheritance.

[Patient preference survey on the lack of taste and odor of Nasonex nasal spray. Which impact on compliance to treatment?]

In order to assess the acceptability of a new scent-free formulation of mometasone furoate (Nasonex) among allergic rhinitis patients, who already have been treated by the scented formulation of Nasonex, a phone survey was performed with a sample of 216 patients recruited by Nasonex GP's prescribers and pharmacists. The aim of this survey is to assess the diagnosis modalities, the allergic rhinitis characteristics and associated symptoms in one hand and in the other hand, the main reasons which led them to prefer a new scent-free formulation, in comparison with the only commercialized scented mometasone furoate (Nasonex) at the time when this survey was conducted. The impact of unscented Nasonex on patient's compliance to treatment was also assessed. This survey confirms that the GP is the key actor who usually establish the allergy diagnosis and the interrogatory is the principle method used. The prick test was more often and significantly used in 35% of the perennial rhinitis instead of 19% in seasonal allergic rhinitis (p < or = 0.05). When the diagnosis of allergy was established by an allergologist, 89% of them used a prick test. In this survey, asthma was associated in 24% of the patients, particularly in who suffering from perennial allergic rhinitis. 85% of patients rate their smell as globally good. 75% of the treated patients were interested by the new unscented formulation of Nasonex, regardless of the type of their rhinitis, seasonal or perennial. About 60% of patients stated that the lack of odor will led them to be more compliant to their treatment.

Visual analog scales can assess the severity of rhinitis graded according to ARIA guidelines

BACKGROUND

The allergic rhinitis and its impact on asthma (ARIA) guidelines provide a new classification of allergic rhinitis, but a quantitative analysis for severity assessment is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To study whether a visual analog scale (VAS) for global rhinitis symptoms could be used to assess the disease severity according to ARIA.

METHODS

Three thousand fifty-two allergic rhinitis patients seen in primary care were tested. Fifty three per cent had an objective diagnosis of allergy and 58% of the patients were treated. Patients were categorized according to ARIA guidelines. The severity of nasal symptoms was assessed using a VAS. Quality of life was measured using the rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ).

RESULTS

Severity had more impact on VAS levels than duration: mild intermittent rhinitis (3.5, 2.4-5.0 cm), mild persistent rhinitis (4.5, 3.2-5.6 cm), moderate/severe intermittent rhinitis (6.7, 5.3-7.7 cm) and moderate/severe persistent rhinitis (7.2, 6.1-8.2 cm). The receiver operating characteristic curve results showed that patients with a VAS of under 5 cm could be classified as 'mild' rhinitis (negative predictive value: 93.5%) and those with a VAS of over 6 cm as 'moderate/severe' rhinitis (positive predictive value: 73.6%). Receiver operating characteristic curves and a logistic regression showed that current treatment and allergy diagnosis have no effect on the assessment of rhinitis severity using VAS. Visual analog scale and the RQLQ global score were significantly correlated (rho = 0.46; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

A simple and quantitative method (VAS) can be used for the quantitative evaluation of severity of allergic rhinitis.

[Prospective evaluation of the method of measurement of the peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) in allergic rhinitis. Observational study "Pratic in ORL"]

OBJECTIVES

To establish the ENT specialists's interest for the nasal obstruction measurement by the Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) for the primary care medical management of patients with allergic rhinitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A nation wide mail survey was conducted on the whole set of 2,800 French ENT specialists. Physicians had to use the PNIF in 4-consecutive patients with allergic rhinitis and assess through a questionnaire their interest for this tool.

RESULTS

About 8% of all ENTs (n = 228) responded. 65.3% of them had used the PNIF with their 4 patients, 29.7% used it in only 1 to 3 of their patients, and 5% did not use it at all. The PNIF was mainly used in moderate to severe rhinitis (94%) in contrast with mild rhinitis (32%) and in persistent rhinitis (94.2%) compared to intermittent rhinitis (54.8%). The primary motivation to use the PNIF on a systematic basis was to quantitatively assess nasal obstruction and to obtain an objective measurement of nasal obstruction. Conversely, the reasons for not using the PNIF were the needless of an objective measurement of nasal obstruction, the drawback of the PNIF in the patient physician relationship and lack of patient's acceptance of the device. Most physicians considered training for a correct usage of the PNIF was easy. Finally, about 2 thirds of the sample gave a positive rating on the usefulness of the PNIF for their patients.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the interest of the practitioners to dispose of a simple and reliable tool for the follow up of nasal obstruction in allergic rhinitis.

[Efficacy and safety of mometasone furoate nasal spray in the treatment of sinusitis or acute rhinosinusitis]

Sinusitis or acute rhinosinusitis, is defined as an acute viral or bacterial infection characterised by inflammation of the mucosa of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Although antibiotics are routinely prescribed for the treatment of acute sinusitis, most cases are caused by viral infections and will resolve without antibiotic therapy. Given concerns about global antibacterial resistance, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines recommend a conservative approach to antibiotic treatment, with mild or moderately severe acute sinusitis managed symptomatically. Intranasal corticosteroids act on the nasal mucosa to relieve inflammation and its associated symptoms, and may be a useful symptomatic treatment option. Two randomised, placebo-controlled trials have demonstrated that the corticosteroid mometasone furoate, administered as a nasal spray (MFNS), is effective as an adjunct to antibiotics in acute sinusitis. The design of these studies show a therapeutic approach known in Europe, but this attitude is still different from the current French guidelines. Furthermore, the efficacy and safety of MFNS monotherapy has been compared with antibiotic therapy in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in adults with acute uncomplicated sinusitis and probably viral. In this study, twice-daily (BID) MFNS 200 microg produced statistically greater improvements in overall symptoms and most individual symptoms compared with amoxicillin or placebo, even though Amoxicillin is not the one recommended by the French guidelines for this indication. These findings suggest that MFNS may play an important role in the management of acute sinusitis, either as monotherapy or as adjunctive treatment to antibiotics. These results lead also to think over its interest in the treatment of uncomplicated common forms of sinusitis, where antibiotics are still widely prescribed in daily practice.

Paranasal sinus fungus ball: epidemiology, clinical features and diagnosis. A retrospective analysis of 173 cases from a single medical center in France, 1989-2002

Over the last decade, we have observed a high frequency of Aspergillus rhinosinusitis in french medical centers. The epidemiological data, clinical presentations, radiology, mycology and histology results of 173 consecutive patients with paranasal sinus fungus balls who were admitted from 1989 to 2002 have been reviewed. The most common symptoms included purulent nasal discharges and nasal obstructions, with the maxillary sinus being the most common site of infection (152 cases, 87.8%). Computed tomography scans (CT scan) were performed in 92% (159/173) of the cases and heterogeneous opacities were observed in 132 patients (83%). Histology examinations were performed in all cases and proved positive in 162 patients. Fungi were recovered, mainly Aspergillus fumigatus, from samples of 50 patients, while specimens from the remaining 123 patients were negative. Since no specific clinical sign could be found, a diagnosis of fungus ball is frequently made after a long term symptomatic period. CT scan findings of metallic or calcified densities within an opacified sinus cavity are highly suggestive of a fungus ball, but mycological and histological studies are essential to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consisted of functional endonasal sinus surgery and was successful in 172 out of 173 cases.

[Prospective study of 43 severe complications of acute rhinosinusitis]

STUDY AIM

Incidence and distribution of severe infectious complications of bacterial rhinosinusitis are mostly unknown in adults. Our objective was to describe these complications, the patients clinical background, the relevant bacteria, their therapeutic management and their evolution.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From November 2001 to March 2003, this prospective and descriptive study recruited patients older than 13 years, immuno-competent and hospitalized in 6 French academic hospitals with severe acute complications of presumed-bacterial community acquired rhinosinusitis.

RESULTS

Fourty three patients (40 +/- 18 years) were included. Fourty four per cent had an ENT history: Infectious rhinosinusitis (23%) and/or chronic rhinosinusitis (14%) and/or sinonasal surgery (19%). The initial sinusitis was either pansinusitis (24 cases) or an isolated sinusitis in 17 cases (missing data 2). The complication was either initial (15), or followed an infectious acute rhinosinusitis in 27 cases (1 missing data). In 39 cases, complications were isolated: Meningo-encephalic (16), orbital (15) and sub-cutaneous abscess (8). Seventy per cent of the swabs were positive, particularly with Haemophilus Influenzae and Streptococcus Pneumoniae in meningitis, Staphylococcus et Streptococcus species in orbital complications, and Staphylococcus species in sub-cutaneous locations. The initial management of the complication, combining systematic antibiotic therapy with surgery (31 patients), resulted in cure for 31 patients. The subsequent management of the 12 initial failures cured 10 more patients (of which 9 after surgery).

CONCLUSION

This prospective study has shown the real risk of severe complications during any acute sinusitis and the need for early treatment often involving a surgery.

Update on treatment guidelines for acute bacterial sinusitis

Acute bacterial sinusitis (ABS) is a common complication of viral upper respiratory tract infections and represents a considerable social burden both in terms of diminished quality of life for the patient and the economic implications of decreased productivity and treatment costs. Several national health authorities have developed guidelines for the management of ABS, which aim to promote rational selection of anti-bacterial therapy to optimise clinical outcomes while minimising the potential for selection of anti-bacterial resistance as a result of inappropriate anti-bacterial usage. This article provides an overview of current guidelines, with particular focus on the clinical significance of variations in treatment recommendations and new treatment options, such as the ketolide telithromycin, which was recently added to a number of national treatment guidelines.

Prevalence of nasal polyposis in France: a cross-sectional, case-control study

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of nasal polyposis (NP) has never been established in France due to the lack of diagnostic tools for population-based studies.

METHODS

Using a recently validated questionnaire/algorithm (90% specificity and sensitivity) in a population-based random sample, the present cross-sectional, case-control study allowed to determine NP prevalence and describe the principal aspects of NP epidemiology. A total of 10 033 subjects (>/=18 years) were screened. After identification of subjects with NP and those without, another questionnaire was submitted to NP patients only for further data collection. Controls were individuals without NP, matched by gender and age to NP patients.

RESULTS

Nasal polyposis prevalence was 2.11% (95% CI 1.83-2.39). NP patients (n = 212, 45% males) were aged 49.4 +/- 17.6 years. No gender preponderance was observed, but NP tended to increase with age. Mean duration of nasal symptoms was 22.4 +/- 15.7 years. Among the 145 patients having already seen a doctor for their symptoms, 77.2% have been referred to a specialist, and 18.6% had a diagnosis of NP. Rhinorrhoea was reported by 39.9% of NP patients, blocked nose by 30.8%, and anosmia by 28.9%. Only 6.9% reported facial discomfort while 24.6% complained about general discomfort. Most NP patients (61.3%) had a pharmacological treatment, a nasal spray for the major part (76.9%).

CONCLUSION

The present study provides valuable and reliable information on NP epidemiology in France; the collected information are in accordance with most published international data.

How should nasal symptoms be investigated in asthma? A comparison of radiologic and endoscopic findings

BACKGROUND

To improve asthma control, the management of rhinosinusitis often leads the physician to perform sinonasal imaging and/or nasal endoscopy, but their respective contributions are still insufficiently understood.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the potential contribution of a symptoms questionnaire, sinus radiography (SR) and computed tomography (CT) scan to the diagnosis of nasal diseases in asthmatic patients when compared with ENT examination.

METHODS

A total of 124 patients completed a questionnaire on nasal symptoms administered by the chest physician. Then, they underwent ENT examination. On the same day, SR and CT scans were performed independently.

RESULTS

Patients (80.3%) had nasal symptoms during the month preceding the consultation. The ENT examination was normal in 8.1% (n = 10) and revealed rhinitis in 57.3% (n = 71), rhinosinusitis in 14.5% (n = 18) and nasal polyposis in 20.2% (n = 25). For rhinitis, the negative predictive value of bilateral nasal obstruction was 87.8%. Both SR and CT had low sensitivity and specificity. For rhinosinusitis, the negative predictive value of nasal symptoms varied from 85.4 to 95.2%. Sinus CT was at least as accurate as SR for the diagnosis of rhinosinusitis. In a multivariate analysis, only the CT scan (score > or =12) appeared to be significantly associated with the diagnosis of nasal polyposis.

CONCLUSION

In asthmatic patients, physicians need to enquire systematically about the existence of nasal symptoms by using this simple questionnaire which is sensitive for rhinitis, and has good negative predictive value for excluding rhinosinusitis and nasal polyposis.

[Paranasal sinuses and facial imaging: exploratory strategies]

Advances in radiological and endoscopic imaging allow more accurate location and spread of nasosinusal diseases. These developments have led to a better understanding of sinusal anatomy and to widespread of surgical techniques as endoscopic sinus surgery. CT becomes the primary imaging modality for assessment of chronic rhinosinusitis and complex traumatic injury. Associated to CT, MRI is used to distinguish between inflammatory and neoplastic pathology and to assess lesions involving the skull base or intracranial structures. However, optimization of technical parameters according to the pathology is necessary.

[French multicenter prospective epidemiologic study (ORLI Group) of allergic and lung diseases associated with nasal polyposis]

224 patients presenting with nasal polyposis (NP) were included in a french prospective multicenter study. NP was evaluated by nasal endoscopy and computed tomography. Allergic status was documented using skin prick-tests and/or specific IgE. Pneumologic assessment included spirometry with carbamyl-choline hyper-reactivity test or beta 2 mimetic broncho-dilation test. Minimal follow up period was 1 year. 45% of the whole population were considered as asthmatic. Asthma onset occurred before and after the NP onset in respectively 45.7%, 22.3% and 32% of cases; these two conditions started simultaneously in 32% of patients. Skin prick-tests and/or specific IgE were positive in 32.5% of cases. In most of the cases (80%), patients were polysensitized to house dust mite and/or pollens and/or animal danders and/or fungi. 31% of the population had idiosyncrasy, caused by drugs in general and especially aspirin in 44% of cases. The global population could be divided in two groups according to the occurrence of previous polypectomy or not. The group "polypectomy" and the group "no polypectomy" were similar regarding the frequency, the age of onset, the course and the severity of associated asthma. Familial history (parents, children, brothers and sisters) was of great interest: 58.7% of the patients had one (or more) relative suffering from NP, 43.6% of the patients had one (or more) relative suffering from asthma and 12.2% of the patients had one (or more) relative suffering from idiosyncrasy. These results support a genetic etiology for NP.

[Epistaxis and hospitalization: a retrospective observational study over 4 years of 260 patients]

OBJECTIVE

Epistaxis is a frequent emergency for which guidelines and treatment are well known. Nevertheless few studies have evaluated the factors that may influence the decision for hospitalisation. Through a retrospective study we have searched to define potential factors which lead to taking such a decision.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of charts of 260 patients hospitalized for epistaxis. For each patient we have reviewed several data including, age, associated pathologies, current treatment, duration of the stay, complications, recurrences etc...

RESULTS

If the severity of the bleeding is one of the major factor, socio-economic factors are also taken into account and may influence the decision to hospitalize. Age, associated pathologies (hypertension, hemopathy) and their treatment (anti-coagulant) also play a role in this decision. Furthermore an obvious strategy in the choice of the different treatment may help to reduce the length of stay and the morbidity of each treatment.

CONCLUSION

We propose some modifications to our strategy to improve the management of epistaxis. This includes the use of endoscopic techniques for diagnosis and treatment.

[Sinusal penetration of amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Formulation 1 g./125 mg., twice daily versus formulation 500 mg./125 mg., three times daily]

INTRODUCTION

In order to meet the evolution of pneumococcus resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, a new formulation of amoxicillin (AMX) and clavulanic acid (CA), with twice as much AMX (1 g/125 mg vs. 500 mg/125 mg) was developed for the treatment of acute pneumonia in patients at risk. This formulation can also be used in the treatment of acute maxillary sinusitis using a 1 g/125 mg regimen twice-daily.

OBJECTIVES

Compare the sinusal penetration of AMX and CA (1 g/125 mg twice-daily vs. 500 mg/125 mg three times a day) when administered at both regimens to demonstrate equivalent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic behaviour of the former when compared to the latter.

METHODS

Concentrations of AMX and CA were measured in the anterior ethmoid, maxillary, posterior ethmoid sinus and in the middle nasa concha in 62 patients undergoing surgery for nasosinusal polyps. Patients randomised in two groups corresponding to 2 oral regimens, received either 1 g/125 mg twice a day or 500 mg/125 mg three times a day for 4 days. The last dose in both groups was administered 1 h 30, 3, 5 or 8 hrs prior to surgery. Serum samples were taken simultaneously to tissue samples. AMX and CA were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Exogenous and above all endogenous blood contamination were taken into account with the hematocrit as well as blood and tissue haemoglobin concentrations. Comparisons of tissue concentrations were made for each sampling time, according to values obtained for a specific tissue with both doses on one hand, and on the other to values obtained with a specific dose in different tissues. The calculated pharmacodynamic parameters, which are considered to be predictive for bacteriological and clinical efficacy, result directly from tissue concentrations of AMX. tissue inhibitory quotients (IQtissue = Tissue concentration/MIC). time above MICs for serum and tissue concentrations (T > MIC).

RESULTS

As regards AMX, whatever the dose, at 1 h 30 and at 3 hrs, tissue concentrations did not differ significantly whatever the tissue studied (from 1.1 to 2.5 micrograms/g). Conversely, at 5 and 8 hrs, they were greater than after the 1 g/125 mg regimen given twice-daily (0.06-0.7 vs. 0.7-1.8 micrograms/g). If we consider a given dose, the comparison between the various tissues showed identical concentrations in the four tissues studied at each sampling time, except in two cases with the dose of 500 mg/125 mg 3 times a day. T > MIC for serum and tissue showed higher values than those required for AMX/pneumococcus association (40-50%) with, nevertheless, greater tissue values for the 1 g/125 mg dose given twice-daily when MIC was of 1 microgram/ml (40-52% vs. 50-66%). The maximum tissue inhibitory quotients were also greater with the twice-daily 1 g/125 mg dose, when calculated with MIC 50 or 90 of S. Pneumoniae, H. influenzae, M. catarrhalis or S. pyogenes. As for CA, concentrations were equivalent for both doses at each sampling time and greater than those required in vitro during respectively 4 and 5 hours for beta-lactamases H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis.

DISCUSSION-CONCLUSION

A least an equivalence between both dose regimens was observed, with occasionally a superiority of the twice-daily 1 g/125 mg dose, in terms of pharmacokinetics, tissue penetration and pharmacodynamics for both AMX and CA. This new regimen therefore appears more appropriate for the treatment of acute maxillary sinusitis in adults.

Epidemiological and clinical aspects of nasal polyposis in France; the ORLI group experience

Nasal polyposis (NP) is a common condition in patients consulting ENT practitioners in France. A multicenter prospective study was performed to evaluate symptoms, demography, environmental factors, personal and family history and associated conditions like asthma, and food or drugs sensitivity (FDS) in patients suffering from NP. In each investigation center assessments were performed at the moment of the initial consultation by the same investigator, then updated with complementary exploration results required by the protocol. The chi 2 test and the Fisher test were used for statistical analysis. In this study 224 patients were included. Males were predominant at 63%. Asthma was found in 45% of cases without relevant sex difference. However, FDS, positive in 31% of the patients, was statistically higher in females than in males (42.9% vs. 24.4%). Severe and major symptoms were more frequently found in the female population. Environment and habitat factors did not appear to be relevant. High rates of NP (52.66%) and asthma (43.58%) were found in the family history. Hereditary factors were suggested and lead us to further study the genetic factors potentially involved in this pathology.

Short therapy with amoxicillin-clavulanate and corticosteroids in acute sinusitis: results of a multicentre study in adults

Evolution of bacterial resistance shortens antibiotic treatment in ENT infections. The efficacy and tolerance of amoxicillin-clavulanate (ACA), with and without associated short steroid therapy, was evaluated in acute sinusitis of adults at a dosage of 1.5 g/d for 5 d vs. 10 d. This multicentre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study included 433 patients, 417 of whom were suitable for intent-to-treat (ITT) analysis. The therapeutic success rate in the ITT population, assessed according to strict clinical and radiological criteria, was respectively, 80% and 85% in the 5-d and 10-d treatment groups. Due to the statistical risks that were evidenced, the 2 durations of treatment could not be considered equivalent. The analysis of medical history shows that some risk factors (recurrence of sinusitis, previous surgical sinus drainage) seem to promote therapeutic failure and that 5-d treatment is inappropriate in these patients. The persistence of therapeutic success on day 30 was not influenced by the initial duration of treatment. The efficacy and good tolerance of ACA in acute sinusitis in adults were confirmed. Further studies will be needed to define the indications of short treatments better, which seem to be indicated in the absence of specific risk factors.

Local safety of intranasal triamcinolone acetonide: clinical and histological aspects of nasal mucosa in the long-term treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis

Intranasal corticosteroids are increasingly used to treat allergic rhinitis and their long-term use is generally safe. However, the long-term safety of each molecule should be assessed. The main aim of this multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-label study was to evaluate the effect of triamcinolone acetonide aqueous intranasal spray on nasal mucosal thickness, macroscopic appearance, and mucociliary function. Patients with perennial allergic rhinitis were treated with triamcinolone acetonide 220 micrograms/day for six months. Nasal biopsies taken before and after treatment were compared with biopsies from patients who had been randomized to oral cetirizine 10 mg day or intranasal beclomethasone dipropionate 400 micrograms/day. In the evaluable population (n = 70), there were no significant differences between groups in terms of histologically evaluated thickness and endoscopically evaluated macroscopic appearance of the nasal mucosa, or indigocarmine saccharine test mucociliary function. In the intent-to-treat population (n = 92), there was no difference between treatment groups in the incidence of overall adverse events. This study indicates that sustained treatment with intranasal triamcinolone acetonide does not lead to atrophy of the nasal mucosa or impairment of mucociliary function.

[Adenoid cystic carcinoma (CAC) of the naso-sinonasal cavities: report of 5 cases, review of the literature]

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare tumour which mainly affects the major and accessory salivary glands. We report 5 new cases affecting the nose and sinuses, and based on these review the literature to determine how this disorder can be better treated, given the significant morbidity and mortality of the condition.

Frontal sinus irrigation: indications, results, and complications

Management, diagnosis, and surgical treatment of the frontal sinus pathology remain a challenge for the rhinologist. Since the introduction of endoscopic instrumentation, the frontal recess may be reached easily and a variety of endonasal approaches have been rediscovered. Although the endoscopic technique allows direct visualization and manipulation, some problems remain, from localization of the frontal sinus ostium during the procedure to the management of the postoperative care to prevent stenosis. The frontal irrigation is suggested as a useful adjunct during the endonasal approach to locate the frontal drainage.

Motogenic effect of recombinant HGF on airway epithelial cells during the in vitro wound repair of the respiratory epithelium

Cell migration is the earliest mechanism involved in the wound repair process of the respiratory epithelium and could be potentially enhanced by growth factors. In the present work, we investigated the localisation of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor (c-Met) during wound repair and evaluated the effect of recombinant HGF (rHGF) on cell migration by using an in vitro model of airway epithelial wound repair. By using immunohistochemical methods, we observed that the immunoreactivity of the c-Met proto-oncogene was increased in epithelial cells engaged in the process of tissue repair. The incubation of wounded cultures with increasing concentrations of rHGF (0.2, 2, 20, and 200 ng/ml) induced a significant (P < 0.02) dose-dependent effect on the wound repair index, with a maximum effect produced at 20 ng/ml (+31.3%). The cell migration speed reached 50.2 micrometer/h at this concentration, compared to 20.4 micrometer/h in the absence of rHGF. No significant effect on cell proliferation was observed in the repairing area in the presence of rHGF. These results suggest that rHGF is able to improve the wound repair process of the airway epithelium by increasing cell migration.

Motogenic effect of recombinant HGF on airway epithelial cells during the in vitro wound repair of the respiratory epithelium

Cell migration is the earliest mechanism involved in the wound repair process of the respiratory epithelium and could be potentially enhanced by growth factors. In the present work, we investigated the localisation of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor (c-Met) during wound repair and evaluated the effect of recombinant HGF (rHGF) on cell migration by using an in vitro model of airway epithelial wound repair. By using immunohistochemical methods, we observed that the immunoreactivity of the c-Met proto-oncogene was increased in epithelial cells engaged in the process of tissue repair. The incubation of wounded cultures with increasing concentrations of rHGF (0.2, 2, 20, and 200 ng/ml) induced a significant (P < 0.02) dose-dependent effect on the wound repair index, with a maximum effect produced at 20 ng/ml (+31.3%). The cell migration speed reached 50.2 micrometer/h at this concentration, compared to 20.4 micrometer/h in the absence of rHGF. No significant effect on cell proliferation was observed in the repairing area in the presence of rHGF. These results suggest that rHGF is able to improve the wound repair process of the airway epithelium by increasing cell migration.

[Rhino-sinus polyposis]

Nasal polyposis is a chronic inflammatory disease, involving mainly adults. Nasal obstruction and olfactory disorders are the main symptoms due to the presence of bilateral polyps in the nasal cavities. Association with asthma is frequently noted. Medical management is dominated by intranasal steroid. Recent studies lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of this pathology and to propose a better long term management including an information for the patient due to the chronicity of the disease.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factors delay airway epithelial wound repair by altering the actin cytoskeleton and inducing overactivation of epithelial matrix metalloproteinase-2

To investigate the role of P. aeruginosa virulence factors in the repair of human airway epithelial cells (HAEC) in culture, we evaluated the effect of stationary-phase supernatants from the wild-type strain PAO1 on cell migration, actin cytoskeleton distribution, epithelial integrity during and after repair of induced wounds, and the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP). PAO1 supernatant altered wound repair by slowing the migration velocity in association with altered actin cytoskeleton polymerization in the lamellipodia of migrating airway epithelial cells and delaying or inhibiting the restoration of epithelial integrity after wound closure. PAO1 virulence factors overactivated two of the gelatinolytic enzymes, MMP-2 and MMP-9, produced by HAEC during repair. During HAEC repair in the presence of PAO1 virulence factors, enhanced MMP-2 activation was associated with decreased rates of its specific inhibitor TIMP-2, whereas enhanced MMP-9 activation was independent of changes of its specific inhibitor TIMP-1. These inhibitory effects were specific to P. aeruginosa elastase-producing strains (PAO1 and lipopolysaccharide-deficient AK43 strain); supernatants from P. aeruginosa strain elastase-deficient PDO240 and Escherichia coli strain DH5alpha had no inhibitory effect. To mimic the effects of P. aeruginosa, we further analyzed HAEC wound closure in the presence of increasing concentrations of activated MMP-9 or MMP-2. Whereas increasing concentrations of active MMP-9 accelerated repair, excess activated MMP-2 generated a lower migration velocity. All these data demonstrate that P. aeruginosa virulence factors, especially elastase, may impede airway epithelial wound closure by altering cell motility and causing an imbalance between pro- and activated forms of MMP-2.

Pneumosinus dilatans: a report of three new cases and their surgical management

Pneumosinus dilatans is a rare pathology that primarily involves the frontal sinus. We report three new cases, with special attention given to the pathophysiology and histologic data. Surgical management is reported.

[Radiology and pathologies of the paranasal cavities]

The radiologic exploration of the paranasal cavities are one of the main exams when ENT is dealing with a sinus pathology. CT scan, MRI, angiography of the paranasal cavities are now easily available to explore the different pathologies including infection, chronic rhinosinusitis or tumors. The authors report their experiences with these exams, to suggest guidelines and recommendations to obtain the best radiologic management of the sinus pathologies.

Nosocomial sinusitis with isolation of anaerobic bacteria in ICU patients

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency and the eventual clinical characteristics of nosocomial sinusitis with anaerobic bacteria isolation in patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

A 12-bed medical ICU in a teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

30 adult patients with documented nosocomial maxillary sinusitis.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

Using appropriate microbiological techniques, 33 anaerobic bacterial strains were isolated in 18/30 patients (60 %) with nosocomial sinusitis. Anaerobic bacteria were associated with aerobic strains in 13 patients (72 %), whereas in 5 patients (28 %) only anaerobic strains were isolated in sinus puncture cultures. The most frequently isolated species were Prevotella sp. (n = 20, 60 %) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (n = 5, 15 %). The production of beta -lactamase was demonstrated in 13/27 gram-negative anaerobic bacteria. All patients in whom anaerobic bacteria were isolated from transnasal punctures had had a nasogastric tube. Patients in whom anaerobic bacteria were isolated more frequently had neurological disorders upon admission (p < 0.02). Ten patients (30 %) had nosocomial pneumonia, 8 of whom had at least one identical strain in both lung and sinus cultures, including 2 patients with anaerobic bacteria isolation.

CONCLUSIONS

Using appropriate microbiological techniques, anaerobic bacteria were frequently isolated in nosocomial sinusitis. If necessary, the empirical choice of antimicrobial therapy in patients with nosocomial sinusitis should take into account these results.

[Conclusion: what is the choice of antibiotics in adult respiratory tract infections?]

TREATMENT OF SINUSITIS: For both acute rhinosinusitis in patients with no past history where S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae are the main causal agents, or recurrent sinusitis in a chronic background where anaerobic bacteria are increasingly implicated, pristinamycin is one of the rare compounds which can be expected to be effective and is a treatment of choice for an empirical strategy. LOWER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS: Besides high-risk subjects with non-microbiologically proven bronchial infection, where enterobacteriaceae could involve a pristinamycin is a useful alternative to the conventional strategy (i.e.: amoxicillin, macrolides and cotrimoxazole) in the treatment of LRT infection.

Bacteriology of chronic purulent secretions in chronic rhinosinusitis

The aim of this work was to study the bacterial flora of purulent secretions during chronic rhinosinusitis. We studied a total of 533 patients divided into two groups. The control population consisted of 139 adults (> 16 years) of both sexes seen in the community or hospitalized for less than 72 hours for non-rhinological conditions. The rhinosinusitis group consisted of 394 patients referred to the ENT clinic with chronic rhinosinusitis. All the patients with rhinosinusitis had had a post-nasal discharge for at least three months, associated with purulent or mucopurulent secretions originating from the involved sinus cavity. All samples were obtained endonasally under endoscopic guidance from the sinus ostium or from the sinus cavity during surgery. Cultures were positive in 81.3 per cent of the control subjects and 83.1 per cent of the patients with rhinosinusitis. Corynebacteria, coagulase-negative staphylococci, propionibacteria and peptostreptococci were the main commensal organisms, while Haemophilus influenzae, streptococci, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Prevotella spp and Fusobacterium spp were probable causative pathogens. Anaerobes were isolated from approximately 25 per cent of the patients in the rhinosinusitis group. Betalactamase producers represented 27.5 per cent of H. influenzae and 28 per cent of Prevotella spp isolates. Diminished susceptibility to penicillin was found in 13 per cent of S. pneumoniae isolates. The amoxycillin-clavulanate combination was the most active oral antibiotic tested against the pathogenic species in vitro.

[Laryngeal schwannoma. Diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Apropos of 2 cases]

Laryngeal schwannoma is an uncommon benign tumor. We report two clinical cases and discuss the different types of clinical symptoms revealing the tumor. Difficulties encountered in obtaining a histological diagnosis are presented. The contribution of imaging is also analyzed according to the different surgical techniques used to manage the tumor depending on its size and localization. We stress the importance of long-term follow-up as recurrences may occur several years after surgical removal.

[Asthma and polyposis]

For many years, the association between asthma and naso-sinus pathology has been noted in the literature. The role of sinus infections on the triggering or aggravation of asthma has been well established. More recently attention has been drawn to the association of the chronic inflammatory rhino-sinus pathologies such as polyposis, with asthmatic illness. Its research and identification are essential in care of the asthmatic patient, since recent work has shown the value of control of polyposis for the stability and improvement of the asthmatic illness. The authors report and analyse the diagnostic and therapeutic methods for polyposis in asthmatics.

ATP depletion induces a loss of respiratory epithelium functional integrity and down-regulates CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) expression

To mimic the effect of ischemia on the integrity of airway epithelium and expression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), we induced an ATP depletion of the respiratory epithelium from upper airway cells (nasal tissue) and human bronchial epithelial 16HBE14o- cell line. Histological analysis showed that 2 h of ATP depletion led to a loss of the epithelium integrity at the interface between basal cells and columnar cells. The expression of connexin 43 (Cx43, subunit of the gap junctions) and desmoplakins 1 and 2 (DPs 1 and 2, major components of the desmosomes) proteins was inhibited. After 90 min of ATP depletion, a significant decrease of the transepithelial resistance (25%) was observed but was reversible. Similar results were obtained with the 16HBE14o- human bronchial epithelial cell line. ATP depletion led to actin filaments depolymerization. The expression of the mature CFTR (170 kDa) and fodrin proteins at the apical domain of the ciliated cells was down-regulated. The steady-state levels of CFTR, Cx43, DPs 1 and 2 mRNAs, semiquantified by RT-polymerase chain reaction kinetics, remained constant throughout ATP depletion in nasal tissue as in the homogeneous cell population of 16HBE14o- human bronchial epithelial cell line. This suggests that the down-regulation of these proteins might be posttranscriptional. The intercellular diffusion through gap junctions of Lucifer dye was completely inhibited after 90 min of ATP depletion but was reversible. The volume-dependent and the cAMP-dependent chloride secretion were inhibited in a nonreversible way. Taken together, these results suggest that an ATP depletion in human airway epithelium, mimicking ischemia, may induce a marked alteration in the junctional complexes and cytoskeleton structure concomitantly with a loss of apical CFTR expression and chloride secretion function.

Diffuse nasal polyposis: postoperative long-term results after endoscopic sinus surgery and frontal irrigation

Diffuse nasal polyposis remains a challenge despite recent improvements in endonasal surgery. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results after a radical complete sphenoethmoidectomy with peroperative and postoperative frontal irrigation in cases of diffuse nasal polyposis. In this prospective study, we include 50 consecutive patients with diffuse nasal polyposis suffering from nasal obstruction, anosmia, and other symptoms of chronic sinusitis. All patients were refractory to medical therapy. In each patient an endoscopic complete sphenoethmoidectomy including total excision of all diseased ethmoid mucosa was performed. Preoperative and postoperative frontal irrigation was performed systematically. The patients were followed closely with serial endoscopic examination, and CT scanning was performed between 2 and 3 years after surgery. There were no complications. Thirty-nine of the 50 patients regained satisfactory olfaction. Partial nasal obstruction persisted in four of the 50 patients. Endoscopically, polyp recurrence was noted in 3% of posterior ethmoids, 23% of anterior ethmoids, and 50% of frontal recesses. We conclude that in cases of refractory and extensive nasal polyposis, a total sphenoethmoidectomy with perioperative frontal irrigation followed by long-term postoperative topical steroid therapy provides excellent improvement or cure with safety and reliability.

Recurrence of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia presenting as a tumor of the middle ear: a case report

PURPOSE

Extramedullary relapse of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia most commonly occurs in the central nervous system or in the testes. Otologic involvement is very rare and has only been reported as an autopsy finding.

PATIENT AND METHODS

We describe the case of a 5-year-old girl with CD10 positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who developed an isolated otologic relapse 18 months after the initial diagnosis of ALL.

RESULTS

This otologic relapse presented as an atypical otitis media related to a mass of the middle ear. The leukemic infiltration of the middle ear was demonstrated by histologic examination. A cytogenetic change characterized by the occurrence of t(1;19)(q23;p13) was observed in the leukemic cells from the middle ear, and the t(1;19) molecular fusion transcript E2A-PBX1 was detected in the bone marrow by polymerase chain reaction.

CONCLUSION

The ear is an exceedingly rare site of relapse in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Molecular analysis demonstrates that such an extramedullary relapse can represent an early manifestation of systemic relapse.

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery and 109 mycetomas of paranasal sinuses

Mycetomas of paranasal sinuses are more frequently diagnosed with the widespread use of nasal endoscopy and computed tomography (CT). We present a series of 109 cases treated by functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) with a mean follow-up of 29 months. All localizations were seen, and contrary to what was initially thought, seven cases presented in multiple sites. Several clinical presentations were found, from a pansinusal involvement to a simple mycetoma hanging in a superior meatus. A heterogeneous sinus opacity with microcalcifications on CT scan is very suggestive of the diagnosis, but a homogeneous opacity may be encountered even with bone lysis. FESS was performed in all cases to obtain a wide opening of the affected sinuses, permitting a careful extraction of all fungal material. In the postoperative period, no medical treatment is prescribed. With a mean follow-up of 29 months, only four recurrences were seen. This study reinforces the interest in FESS for cases of mycetoma of the paranasal sinuses.

Bacteriology of the adult middle meatus

The aim of this work was to assess the commensal flora in the adult middle meatus. Thus, 139 samples were taken from subjects of both sexes, over 16 years of age, seen in the community or hospitalized for less than 72 hours for non-rhinological conditions. They had had no nasal or sinus conditions in the previous three months. One hundred and thirteen samples contained at least one aerobic or anaerobic bacterium. Fifty-nine samples yielded a single organism in culture. A maximum of five organisms were isolated from a given patient. These results show that the adult middle meatus contains a mixed commensal flora and should prove useful in interpreting endonasal swab cultures during acute and chronic sinus infection.