Treatment alternatives for chronic rhinosinusitis persisting after ESS: what to do when antibiotics, steroids and surgery fail.

Abstract

Given the accessibility of the sinus cavities after ESS, topical therapies are privileged. Saline spray or irrigation is recommended for all patients. Corticosteroids in oral or topical forms are recommended for controlling the inflammatory component, while the use of a short term course of oral or topical antibiotics are recommended mainly for the treatment of exacerbations. Long-term therapy with oral macrolides is also recommended as an alternative therapy. Desensitization with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for individuals with documented ASA sensitivity is recommended where available, while revision surgery, anti-leukotriene agents and intravenous immunoglobulins are options in management in selected patients. Antifungal therapy is not recommended. No recommendations for potentially experimental strategies are made in the absence of published experience and safety data in human subjects.