Recent trends in the diagnosis and management of allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis is a global health issue and its prevalence is increasing. Allergic rhinitis and asthma coexist in many patients. Allergic rhinitis is an Ig E mediated reaction. Prostaglandins and Leukotriens do not play a significant role in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis. Skin prick test and Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) are useful as diagnostic tests. The three major modalities of treatment for allergic rhinitis are allergen avoidance, pharmacotherapy and immunotherapy.