ALLERGIC RHINITIS AND IMMUNE SYSTEM

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis (AR) represents a global health concern where it affects approximately 400 million people worldwide. The prevalence of AR has increased over the years along with increased urbanization and environmental pollutants thought to be some of the leading causes of the disease. Understanding the pathophysiology of AR is crucial in the development of novel therapies to treat this incurable disease that often comorbids with other airway diseases. Atopic allergic sensitization is defined by the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated immune response toward allergens. Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common disorder that afflicts 400 million people worldwide and it represents a global concern as its prevalence has increased over the years [1]. AR usually comorbids with other diseases such as asthma [2], leading to impaired quality of life, school or work performance, and significant financial impact. AR is shown to be caused by aberrantly high Th2 cytokines, and recent findings on the cause of AR are directed toward impairment of the nasal epithelial barrier integrity [3]