160 The prevalence of chronic rhinosinusitis in paediatric cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Chronic rhinosinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the paranasal sinuses, lasting longer than 12 weeks. Symptoms include nasal discharge and congestion, head or facial pain and sleep disturbances. There is evidence of an association between upper and lower airway pathogens. 30–67% of adult cystic fibrosis (CF) patients report symptoms. Incidence in children has not been investigated. Aim To ascertain the prevalence and severity of chronic rhinosinusitis in a paediatric CF population. Method CF patients ≥6 years of age attending the Great North Children's Hospital were asked to complete a validated questionnaire, the Sino Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-20). Results 58 children participated, mean age 11.3±3.1 years, 22 males. Mean baseline % predicted FEV 1 was 84.6±17.8. Mean SNOT-20 score (maximum 100) was 14.9±16.54, range 0–81. Division in to sub categories of rhinological, ear and facial, sleep function and psychological demonstrated that rhinological symptoms were the most reported. Symptoms were mild in 52% ( Conclusion A significant proportion of paediatric CF patients report symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis. Regular assessment of the sinuses is recommended and treatment should be instigated in those patients with moderate to severe symptoms. Further research into treatment in the paediatric population is needed.