The management of paediatric rhinosinusitis

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 Aug:147:110786. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2021.110786. Epub 2021 Jun 4.

Abstract

Paediatric rhinosinusitis (PDRS) is commonly used as a synonym for rhinitis within healthcare. Although they may share common symptoms, the pathophysiology does differ; PDRS is the inflammation of the nasal mucosa in addition to the sinuses whereas rhinitis is the inflammation of just nasal mucosa. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptoms, diagnosis and management of PDRS. There is a greater emphasis on the diagnosis and management of PDRS within this review due to a lack of clear guidelines, which can lead to the common misconception that PDRS can be treated indifferently to rhinitis and other upper respiratory conditions. PDRS has detrimental effects on children's current health, long-term health into adulthood and education. Therefore, having a comprehensive guide of PDRS would provide a greater understanding of the condition as well as improved diagnosis and management. This article primarily focuses on the position of Europe and the United Kingdom; however, the recommendations can be applied to other countries as the causes and treatments would not differ significantly.

Keywords: Acute rhinosinusitis; Chronic rhinosinusitis; Immunotherapy; Medical management; Otolaryngology; Paeditaric rhinosinusitis; Surgical management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Chronic Disease
  • Europe
  • Humans
  • Nasal Polyps*
  • Rhinitis* / diagnosis
  • Rhinitis* / epidemiology
  • Rhinitis* / therapy
  • Sinusitis* / diagnosis
  • Sinusitis* / epidemiology
  • Sinusitis* / therapy
  • United Kingdom