Inhalant Allergy Evaluation in ENT Patients

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this article is to educate the reader on the current trends in the evaluation of allergic rhinitis, with a focus on inhalant allergy, in otolaryngic patients.

Recent Findings and Summary

Recent literature emphasizes the need for a thorough history and physical examination that can lead the practitioner to a clinical diagnosis of allergic rhinitis. Looking at patient cues such as allergic shiners, the allergic salute, polypoid tissue on middle turbinate, tonsillar and adenoid hypertrophy, laryngeal edema, and patients with chronic suppurative otitis media or otitis media with mucopurulent drainage may lead to further diagnostic testing. Diagnostic testing should be determined on an individual basis dependent on their particular geographic location. Negative testing does not rule out allergen sensitivity, and patients should be treated based on their symptoms.

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