Respiratory allergies

Abstract

The respiratory allergies, that clinically correspond to asthma and rhinitis, are characterized by a type I hypersensitivity reaction because they are the result from the interaction between allergens and specific IgE antibodies. They are multifactor diseases caused by genetic and environmental factors. The inflammatory process is the major event concerning their pathophysiology. The accurate diagnosis, with the identification of the involved allergen (determination of specific IgE in vivo or in vitro), the severity of the symptoms and the knowledge about the pathophysiologic mechanisms constitute the basis to the best management approach. Clinical studies report that with the appropriate medication, education and correct orientation, the respiratory allergies can be under control with minimum damage to the quality of life of the patients. There are clinical, epidemiological and pathophysiological data that evidence a strong association between asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis and nasal poliposis. These data have led some authors to suggest terms suchas UNITED AIRWAYS to address the association between these diseases. The WHO andother associations of specialists created the initiative ARIA (Allergic rhinitis and its impacton asthma) with the purpose to better understand the link asthma/rhinitis, to create new knowledge to be used in control and prevention of asthma/rhinitis, raising the consciousness about the rhinitis and its impact on public health, and to the adequate treatment available to everyone who needs it.