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. 2004 Aug;59(8):863-8.
doi: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2004.00509.x.

Sinus CT scans and mediator release in nasal secretions after nasal challenge with cypress pollens

V Piette  1 , C Bousquet, V Kvedariene, H Dhivert-Donnadieu, L Crampette, J-P Senac, J Bousquet, P Demoly
Affiliations

Sinus CT scans and mediator release in nasal secretions after nasal challenge with cypress pollens

V Piette et al. Allergy. 2004 Aug.

Abstract

Background: Involvement of paranasal sinuses has been suggested in allergic rhinitis but not clearly demonstrated.

Aims: To investigate the relationship between intermittent allergic rhinitis and computerized tomography (CT).

Methods: Twenty patients with intermittent rhinitis and sensitized to cypress pollens underwent unilateral nasal provocation tests (NPTs) using increasing concentrations of cypress pollens out of the pollen season. Sinus CT-scans were carried out just before a NPT and 24 h later. Nasal lavage was carried out just before a NPT, 30 min after a positive challenge and again 24 h later. Leucotriene C4/D4, intracellular adhesion molecule-1 and eosinophil cationic protein were measured in nasal secretions.

Results: Thirteen patients (65%) showed an alteration in their CT-scans after allergen challenge. Ten of them showed sinus changes controlateral to their allergenic provocation. Radiological changes mainly affected the osteomeatal complex and the ethmoid sinuses. Pre-existing abnormalities (13 of 20 cases) mainly concerned the maxillary sinuses. There was no correlation between CT-scan abnormalities and levels of mediators released in nasal secretions.

Conclusions: We have shown that nasal allergen challenge can produce radiological changes in the paranasal sinuses. This mainly concerned the ethmoid sinuses.

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