Allergische rinitis en astma: pathofysiologische relatie en implicaties voor de behandeling

- Allergic rhinitis and asthma share various clinical, pathophysiological and immunological characteristics and often coexist.

- Recent studies provide evidence of cross-talk between both airway compartments, possibly by systemic signalling.

- These observations resulted in the concept of ‘allergic airway disease’, providing a rationale for systemic treatment.

- Presently, many novel systemic treatment modalities, including anti-IgE and phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors, are being evaluated in clinical trials.

- In the Netherlands, there are currently two registered systemic therapies targeting the pathophysiological mechanisms of the united airway disease: leukotriene receptor antagonists and immunotherapy. These therapies are usually prescribed in combination with the standard pharmacotherapy.

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2006;150:77-82