[Allergo-immunology]

Rev Med Suisse. 2006 Jan 11;2(48):89-92.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis is a frequent illness. New therapeutic options are being developed to counteract its impact on quality of life and health costs. This article presents two of these options, laser rhinophototherapy and Butterbur Ze 339, a drug derived from petasites. The immunodepressing effect of phototherapy has been tested in nasal mucosa. This application has shown satisfactory anti-inflammatory results in nasal cleaning fluid and, consequently, has enabled to reduce allergic rhinitis. The effect of butterbur on the symptoms of allergic rhinitis has to be understood in relation with the inhibition of cysleucotrienes synthesis, as well as its action on eosinophils and mastocytes. However, long-term studies involving large cohorts of patients are needed if we want to prescribe these treatments without restrictions.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Nasal Mucosa / radiation effects
  • Petasites*
  • Phototherapy*
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Rhinitis / therapy*

Substances

  • Plant Extracts