Journal of Allergy & Therapy

Abstract

Allergic Rhinitis

Ramírez-Jiménez F, Pavón-Romero G, Juárez-Martínez LL and Terán LM*

Allergic rhinitis (AR) has a negative impact on the quality of life and its incidence and prevalence is increasing worldwide. Depending on the sensitization pattern, patients may develop seasonal- or perennial symptoms: seasonal rhinitis is caused by aeroallergens such as pollens while the perennial form is mostly induced by mites, mold, and dander. In many cases allergen avoidance may contribute significantly to reduce the use of medications. The most common agents to treat AR include antihistamines, decongestants, steroids, mast cell stabilizers, anticholinergic agents, antileukotrienes and mucolytics: topical corticosteroids are the preferred method of treatment for both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Specific allergen immunotherapy should be considered when there is a poor response to pharmacotherapy, particularly as it is effective and modifies the course of the disease. A clear advantage of SIT over pharmacotherapy, the benefits of which last as long as it is continued, is a long-lasting relief of allergic symptoms after treatment discontinuation. Novel forms of SIT are currently under investigation including peptide vaccine using T cell epitopes, recombinant hypoallergenic allergens, and conjugated DNA vaccines.