Allergic Rhinitis: Updates of Advances

Background: In this article, the updates in the advancement of allergic rhinitis (AR) were reviewed.

Methods: A search of the literature was performed using PubMed, Medline, Google, and Google Scholar search engines between 1975 and
2024. Search terms related to “allergic rhinitis” or “allergy” or “treatment” or “pathophysiology” or “causes” or “allergen immunotherapy” or
“sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)” or “subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT)” were identified and queried to select recent and relevant articles.

Results: Allergic rhinitis presents with symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal blockage, accompanied by itchiness of the nose and
palate, and affects approximately 20-30% of adults. The underlying factors contributing to AR can vary depending on whether the symptoms
manifest seasonally, persistently, or sporadically. Irritant factors like “smoke, pollution, and strong odors” can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with AR, which are also common triggers for “vasomotor rhinitis.” Rapid hypersensitivity skin testing, commonly referred to as “skin prick
tests,” offers a quick and economical method to identify the presence of “allergen-specific immunoglobulin E.” Glucocorticoid nasal sprays are
considered the most efficient treatment for patients with persistent and significant nasal symptoms. Additional treatment choices encompass “oral antihistamines,” “nasal sprays containing antihistamines,” mast-cell stabilizers like “cromolyn sodium,” “leukotriene modifiers,” and
“ipratropium.” Subcutaneous immunotherapy has demonstrated the effectiveness in managing allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma; albeit, it
typically entails regular injections spanning 3-5 years. Since patients are typically treated with a single type of allergen, SLIT is more suitable for
those who have an allergen that is the underlying cause of their symptoms.

Conclusion: Allergic rhinitis is commonly seen in the population and requires significant budgets for treatment. Glucocorticoid nasal sprays
and antihistamines are primarily administered treatments. In necessary cases, immunotherapy options such as SCIT or SLIT can also be applied.

Cite this article as: Muluk NB. Allergic rhinitis: updates of advances. B-ENT. 2026;21(3):133-146.