Aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease Aspirin sensitivity syndrome

Aspirin exacerbated respiratory diseaseAspirin exacerbated respiratory disease
  • Facts:
    Pathogenesis believed to involve a 'pseudo-allergic reaction' that is an exaggerated release of vasoactive and inflammatory mediators in susceptible individuals

    Accumulation of leukotrienes and changed prostaglandin/leukotriene balance triggers characteristic reaction (bronchoconstriction, polyp formation)
  • History / PE:
    Recent use of ASA
    Asthma
    Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis
    Bronchospasm/nasal congestion
    Bland tasting food (from anosmia)
  • Treatment:
    Avoidance of NSAIDs
    Leukotriene receptor antagonists (eg. montelukast, zileuton)
    Surgery for temporary relief ( polyps grow back)
    Medical management of underlying etiology
  • Differential Diagnosis:
    Hypersensitivity reactions
    Allergic rhinitis



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August 5th 2010