Impact of Chronic Rhinosinusitis on Lung Function: A Critical Appraisal

Introduction: The relationship between the pathologies of the upper and the lower airways are evident with many correlations with literature. This study was aimed at understanding the effect of chronic rhino sinusitis on pulmonary function getting us closer to the question of the benefits of treatment of upper respiratory pathology and its benefits on the lower airway.

Materials and Methods: The study was a prospective study conducted in a tertiary care centre over a period of 2 years, involving 50 patients who were diagnosed with chronic rhino sinusitis. These patients were carefully selected excluding patients with coexisting comorbids including COPD, smokers.

Results: Majority of patients included in the study (72%) showed clinically asymptomatic obstructive lung function pattern in the screening pulmonary function test. Clinical correlations with CT grading and pulmonary function was satisfactory.

Conclusion: Latent obstructive pulmonary function is seen in majority of patients with chronic rhino sinusitis. Regular follow up of such patients will make it pivotal in early diagnosis of a, progressing lower airway obstruction.