INTRODUCTION.
Allergic rhinitis (AR) in children has a significant impact on global
quality of life, including school performance, sleep disorders, and
emotional health(2). Furthermore, over the years many
authors tried to correlate allergy with comorbidities and in particular
to the onset of rhinosinusitis including common cold, even though
conflicting results are frequently reached.
AR is a nasal mucosa inflammatory condition caused by environmental
allergens interacting with immunoglobulin (Ig) E in sensitized subjects.
Repeated exposure may lead to long-term changes in systemic and
local inflammation, including up-regulation of nasal eosinophils
and allergen-specific IgE, increased levels of adhesion molecules in
airway mucosa and enhanced systemic response
to allergen challenge(4). Consequently, it is not
surprising that AR has been historically associated with comorbid upper
airway diseases(5). Herein, we review clinical and
laboratory evidence, linking allergy to rhinosinusitis in children. We
aimed to investigate allergy not only as etiologic, but also as a
worsening factor; in fact, poorly controlled AR might contribute to
exacerbations and as such its adequate treatment might improve
outcomes(6).