Our Summary

This study looked at a disease called chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), which is a long-term sinus and nasal problem that often comes back after treatment. This disease can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and is expensive to manage. The aim of the study was to understand the differences in certain proteins (IL-5, IL-8, IL-17A and TGF-β1) in the tissue of the nasal polyps in patients with CRSwNP and those who have recurring CRSwNP.

The study involved 15 patients with recurring CRSwNP and 15 with CRSwNP who had never had surgery. Tissue samples from the patients’ nasal polyps were collected by brushing and during surgery.

The results showed that the protein IL-5 was significantly higher in the tissue of patients with recurring CRSwNP. Other proteins (IL-8, IL-17A and TGF-β1) were lower in these patients, but not significantly so. In the polyp tissue, TGF-β1 and IL-8 were significantly lower in patients with recurring CRSwNP, while IL-5 was higher, though not significantly.

The study concluded that looking at the levels of IL-5 in the tissue could help predict if the polyps are likely to come back. This can be done using simple techniques, such as brushing, before surgical removal of the polyps.

FAQs

  1. What is chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP)?
  2. What was the main finding of the study regarding the levels of certain proteins in nasal polyp tissue?
  3. How could testing for the levels of IL-5 in the tissue help in managing CRSwNP?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to discuss the possibility of monitoring their levels of IL-5 protein in the tissue during the procedure. By keeping an eye on this protein, doctors may be able to predict if the polyps are likely to come back in the future. This information can help guide post-operative care and potentially reduce the likelihood of polyp recurrence.

Suitable For

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) who have recurring polyps are typically recommended nasal polyp removal. These patients may have symptoms such as nasal congestion, sinus pressure, loss of smell, and difficulty breathing. Recurring nasal polyps can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may require surgical intervention to manage the symptoms effectively. The study mentioned above suggests that monitoring the levels of certain proteins in the nasal polyp tissue, such as IL-5, can help predict the likelihood of polyp recurrence and guide treatment decisions.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, postnasal drip, loss of smell, and facial pain or pressure.
  2. Patient may undergo diagnostic tests such as nasal endoscopy, CT scan, or allergy testing to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.
  3. Patient may try conservative treatments such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, or saline rinses to manage symptoms.

After nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient undergoes surgical removal of nasal polyps, either through endoscopic sinus surgery or other techniques.
  2. Patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and nasal congestion following the surgery.
  3. Patient may be prescribed medications such as pain relievers, nasal corticosteroids, or antibiotics to prevent infection.
  4. Patient typically experiences improvement in symptoms such as improved nasal breathing, reduced nasal congestion, and improved sense of smell.
  5. Patient may require follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor recovery and prevent recurrence of nasal polyps.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery time after the surgery?
  3. Will I need to take any medications or use any nasal sprays after the surgery?
  4. How likely are the nasal polyps to come back after the surgery?
  5. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps?
  6. Will I need any follow-up appointments or tests after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments to consider before opting for surgery?
  8. How will the surgery affect my sense of smell and taste?
  9. Will the surgery improve my breathing and reduce my symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis?
  10. How experienced are you in performing nasal polyp removal surgeries?

Reference

Authors: Huriyati E, Darwin E, Yanwirasti Y, Wahid I. Journal: Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019 May 31;7(11):1733-1738. doi: 10.3889/oamjms.2019.341. eCollection 2019 Jun 15. PMID: 31316650