English summary: ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN ASTHMATIC SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN: DO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT MEET THE CRITERIA?

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma are nowadays considered as manifestations of the same disease entity. Most asthma patients have allergic rhinitis. This study aimed to investigate the diagnosis and treatment of AR in asthmatic school-aged children in paediatric practice.

Methods

The study population consisted of a random sample (n = 400) of 903 asthmatic children aged 7-15 years who were followed up by a Tampere University Hospital paediatrician over a defined study period between 2000 and 2002. Two forms were used to collect the data retrospectively from patient records.

Results

The patient records showed that 21.5% (95%CI 17.6-26.0%) of the patients were diagnosed with allergic rhinitis. Rhinitis symptoms were present in 61.8% (95%CI 56.8-66.7%). 44.6% (95%CI 39.7-49.7%) of the patients had not had a nasal examination. Medication for allergy was used by 47% (95%CI 42.0-52.1%). Some of the patients whose nose had not been examined or who had negative findings in the nasal examination, used intranasal corticosteroids.

Conclusions

Allergic rhinitis in asthmatic school-aged children is underdiagnosed and the principles of the treatment are unclear. Proper diagnosis and recommended treatment options should be emphasized in all health care services.