Diagnosis and management of NSAID-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (N-ERD)-a EAACI position paper

Allergy. 2019 Jan;74(1):28-39. doi: 10.1111/all.13599. Epub 2018 Oct 2.

Abstract

NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) is a chronic eosinophilic, inflammatory disorder of the respiratory tract occurring in patients with asthma and/or chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), symptoms of which are exacerbated by NSAIDs, including aspirin. Despite some progress in understanding of the pathophysiology of the syndrome, which affects 1/10 of patients with asthma and rhinosinusitis, it remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. In order to provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of N-ERD, a panel of international experts was called by the EAACI Asthma Section. The document summarizes current knowledge on the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of N-ERD pointing at significant heterogeneity of this syndrome. Critically evaluating the usefulness of diagnostic tools available, the paper offers practical algorithm for the diagnosis of N-ERD. Recommendations for the most effective management of a patient with N-ERD stressing the potential high morbidity and severity of the underlying asthma and rhinosinusitis are discussed and proposed. Newly described sub-phenotypes and emerging sub-endotypes of N-ERD are potentially relevant for new and more specific (eg, biological) treatment modalities. Finally, the document defines major gaps in our knowledge on N-ERD and unmet needs, which should be addressed in the future.

Keywords: AERD; ENT (rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal polyps…); asthma; asthma treatment; drug allergy; sinusitis.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / adverse effects*
  • Asthma
  • Asthma, Aspirin-Induced / diagnosis*
  • Disease Management
  • Humans
  • Respiratory Tract Diseases / chemically induced
  • Rhinitis
  • Sinusitis

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal