Bocsan Ioana Corina 1, Bujor Ioana Adriana 2, Negulescu V. 3, Deleanu Diana 2, Buzoianu D. Anca 1
1 Department of Clinical Pharmacology, UMP Iuliu Hatieganu, Cluj Napoca, Romania
2 Department of Immunology, UMP Iuliu Hatieganu, Cluj Napoca, Romania
3 Department of Clinical Pharmacology, UMP Carola Davila, Bucharest, Romania
Abstract
The aim of the study was the assessment of quality of life in patients with persistent allergic rhinitis (PAR) and their response to H1 antihistamine treatment. Material and methods: 85 patients (mean age 29.91±9.93 years) with PAR were included in the study. All the patients had skin prick tests to common inhalant allergens. Patients were clinically evaluated regarding the presence and intensity of rhinitis symptoms. Based on the total symptoms score the severity of the disease was established. The quality of life was measured based on RQLQ questionnaire. Both evaluations were applied before and after a 4-week treatment with Desloratadine 5 mg/day or Levocetirizine 5 mg/day. Results: 71.76% of the patients had moderate severe forms of allergic rhinitis. 27.1% of the patients were sensitized only to indoor allergens, 20% were sensitized to different types of pollen, while 52.9% of them had double sensitization (pollens and indoor allergens). TSS was significantly higher in patients sensitized to pollen and in those with dual sensitization (indoor and outdoor allergens) (p = 0.026). Sneezing and itchy eyes were significantly more severe than in those with allergic rhinitis induced by indoor allergens (p=0.004, p=0.015). Impaired quality of life is perceived more intensely by patients with allergic rhinitis due to pollen or in those who are both allergic to pollen and indoor allergens (p=0.06), especially the impairment of daily activities and emotional state. Levocetirizine and Desloratadine significantly improved all the symptoms and patients¢ quality of life. In patients with PAR, in terms of symptoms and quality of life improvement there is no difference between compounds. Conclusions: Persistent allergic rhinitis affects the quality of life of patients. Second generation H1 antihistamines relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improve the quality of life. RQLQ could be another tool for disease assessment and treatment response.