Pathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyp

Abstract

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common inflammatory condition of the paranasal sinuses and nasal passages. CRS with nasal polyp (CRSwNP) is a subtype of CRS, and the pathogenesis of CRSwNP remains largely unclear.

Methods: This article reviews the literature regarding the pathophysiology of CRSwNP.

Results: Evidence suggests that altered innate immunity, adaptive immunity, tissue remodeling, and/or effects of microorganisms may play a role in the development of CRSwNP. Aberrant arachidonic acid metabolism may also contribute to the pathogenesis of CRSwNP in patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease.

Conclusion: There have been significant advances in the understanding pathophysiology of CRSwNP. Additional research is needed to elucidate these mechanisms and to determine their relative importance in the pathogenesis of CRSwNP.