Topical corticosteroids and nasal reactivity.

The etiology of perennial non-allergic rhinitis and nasal polyposis is still not properly understood. Non-specific hyperreactivity forms a major significant symptom. Topical steroids have been used in the treatment of these diseases for about ten years. Their mode of action is still largely unknown. Various test methods in clinical trials can improve our knowledge. The effect of budesonide given intranasally as an aerosol was tested in 22 patients with perennial rhinitis. In another trial the effect of beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) was compared when given as an aerosol and as a powder. Today we know not only that budesonide and the two forms of BDP are clinically efficacious but also that intranasal steroid treatment can reduce metacholine-induced nasal secretion, reduce the sensitivity of mucosal irritant receptors, and lower the number of basophilic as well as eosinophilic cells in the nasal secretion.