Cellulose Powder for the Treatment of Persistent Allergic Rhinitis in Children and Adolescents: a Pilot Study

Abstract

RATIONALE: Cellulose powder has been used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis for several years in different countries. It may act as an artificial barrier to reduce exposition to allergens and irritants. METHODS: Eight patients (8 to 16 years) with persistent allergic rhinitis, without nasal or systemic steroids for at least one month were treated with a cellulose powder (Nasaleze, one application per nostril twice daily) for two weeks. Nasal symptoms score (range 0 to 12), nasal congestion (acoustic rhinometry) and nonspecific nasal hyperreactivity (histamine nasal provocation test) were measured before and after treatment. RESULTS: Median nasal symptoms score was significantly lower at the end of treatment (8.5 vs. 4.5; p=0.04) and symptoms reduction was observed in all patients with only one exception. No significant difference was noted in nasal volume (first 5cm [V5]: 8.6cm3 vs. 9.2cm3; p=0.18), but median concentration of histamine necessary to induce 20% decrease in nasal volume (V5) was significantly higher after treatment (0.375mg/ml vs. 2.0mg/ml; p=0.04). No adverse event was reported. CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study indicates that cellulose powder can be useful in the treatment of patients with allergic rhinitis. Further evaluations are still necessary to define its efficacy and role in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.