Rhinitis guidelines and implications for occupational rhinitis

Purpose of review To review the most recent rhinitis guidelines in the aspects pertaining the link between rhinitis and work, and to summarize the specific literature on occupational rhinitis published in 2007 and 2008. Recent findings Recently there has been a growing scientific interest in work-related rhinitis. Health personnel, cleaners, bakers, apprentices in high-risk occupations, and workers exposed to multiple agents are at increased risk of rhinitis, especially in the very first years of employment. Flour allergens are often involved and may induce nonallergic and enhance allergic airway inflammation. The specific nasal challenge remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Acoustic rhinometry and nasal lavage are validated tools for monitoring nasal response. Occupational rhinitis seems to have an impact on quality of life of affected workers and allergic rhinitis impairs work productivity. Summary This review updated recent findings on epidemiology, mechanisms, diagnosis, management, and prevention of occupational rhinitis. This article also provides new information on the impact of occupational rhinitis on quality of life and on the impact of rhinitis on work productivity. Occupational rhinitis should be considered in daily clinical practice and research.