Rhinitis

Rhinitis is a problem causing significant morbidity. The etiology of rhinitis is varied. The pathophysiology of rhinitis is just beginning to be elucidated. Allergic rhinitis is primarily understood as an inflammatory disease with a neurogenic component. Disease states such as responses to cold dry air are primarily considered to be neurogenic in origin, but inflammatory cells and mediators play a significant role in the development of symptoms in these patients. Our understanding of these complex interactions is reflected in the pharmacologic interventions currently available. Most rhinitis therapy addresses the symptoms of rhinitis not the underlying disease state. Future research in the field of rhinitis should increase our knowledge of the pathophysiology and therefore assist in new drug development.