Assessment of relationship between allergic rhinitis and asthma in children

Assessment of Relationship Between Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma in Children In our study, we aimed to determine whether allergen sensitization in children with allergic rhinitis have an effect on asthma development, comorbid conditions (allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis) and complications such as otitis, chronic sinusitis, chronic tonsillitis, adenoid hypertrophy, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. A total of 120 patients between 5 to 18 years of age were included, 72 patients were male and 48 patients were female. Patients with diagnosis of allergic rhinitis and with symptoms of asthma were included. Patients were assessed for body mass index, residence (urban/rural), family history for atopy, exposure to cigarette smoke, history of pets, exposure to chemicals, previous alternative treatment experiences, comorbid conditions like allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis and complications such as otitis, chronic sinusitis, chronic tonsillitis, adenoid hypertrophy, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Patients were classified as mild, moderate or severe allergic rhinitis based on severity and intermittent and persistent according to their symptom frequency. Complete blood count, blood eosinophils, total IgE, skin prick test and spirometer results were evaluated. Allergic conjunctivitis was the most common comorbid condition to allergic rhinitis (71,7%). Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus hypersensitivity was the most common skin prick test result. No significant correlation was seen between allergen hypersensitivity and asthma incidence. In patients with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis, asthma incidence was significantly higher than mild allergic rhinitis (p=0,009). Allergic rhinitis was more severe in patients who have hypersensitivity to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (p=0,011) or Alternaria (p=0,006). In conclusion, we did not show any significant relationship between allergen hypersensitivity and incidence of asthma in children with allergic rhinitis. Hypersensitivity to different allergens have no effect on asthma development. However, patients with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis should be further tested for asthma since incidence of asthma is significantly higher in these patients. Patients admitting with allergic rhinitis should be further evaluated for other comorbid conditions and complications. Key words: Allergic rhinitis, skin prick test, asthma.