Two-thirds of patients with allergic rhinitis may be at risk of becoming asthmatic

Allergic rhinitis (AR) may be considered a risk factor for the onset of asthma. Recently, it has been reported that forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity (FEF(25-75) ) may predict a positive response to bronchodilation test in asthmatic children.

1,500 adult patients suffering from persistent AR were evaluated in this study from Italy.

63% of patients had reversibility to bronchodilation test and 18% had impaired FEF(25-75) values (lower than 65% of predicted).

This study highlights that about two-thirds of patients with persistent AR may be considered at risk of becoming asthmatic. Spirometry may allow the early detection of patients prone to develop asthma.

References:
Bronchodilation test in patients with allergic rhinitis. Ciprandi G, Signori A, Tosca MA, Cirillo I. Allergy. 2011 Jan 25. doi: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2011.02544.x.

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