[Routine otorhinolaryngological examination in patients with cystic fibrosis]

Abstract

Objectives: Data on the prevalence of otorhinolaryngological (ORL) symptoms in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) are limited. A standard annual examination would be useful for definition of risk factors and/or management alternatives for these symptoms.

Study design: Prospective observational study of an unselected group of CF patients.

Patients and methods: Between 1997 and 2004, 123 CF patients were routinely examined. The examinations included nasal endoscopy and audiological evaluation.

Results: All patients who were approached to take part in the study gave their consent and were extremely cooperative. In 40% of the patients nasal polyps were found endoscopically. In 22% rhinological surgery had already been performed. Of the 123 patients, 13 (12%) showed different grades of sensorineural hearing loss, and all of these patients had received aminoglycoside antibiotics.

Conclusions: CF patients demonstrate a high prevalence of ORL symptoms. Therefore, an annual standard examination would provide data for identifying potential risk factors and for optimizing the management of these symptoms in CF patients.