Sinusitis and allergy

Chronic sinusitis is quite common in the United States. Approximately 28% of cases of sinusitis are also associated with allergy. Our knowledge of the underlying immunohistochemical processes has grown considerably, and, with this growth, our ability to explain the development of sinusitis in the allergic patient has also been enhanced. Recent research provides direct evidence that the allergic reaction, which is inherently inflammatory, occurs in the paranasal sinuses. Therefore, the differential diagnosis of sinusitis must include allergy.