Glycyrrhizin and mannitol nasal therapy: cytological and clinical outcomes in chronic rhinitis

Introduction Chronic rhinitis (CR) represents a widespread inflammation with a high incidence in the general population. Although it is generally considered a benign condition, CR has a relevant impact on quality of life and requires a specific treatment approach.Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of glycyrrhizin and mannitol intranasal treatment on chronic rhinitis using cytological analysis and subjective evaluation of symptoms.Methods A total of 55 patients suffering from chronic rhinitis were enrolled in the present study, 34 with allergic rhinitis (AR) and 21 with nonallergic rhinitis (NAR). The severity of four different nasal symptoms was determined by using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Specimens obtained by nasal scraping were collected for cytological analysis. Data were acquired before and after a 30-day treatment with glycyrrhizin and mannitol nasal spray. Statistical analyses were performed.Results The VAS scores for all four nasal symptoms considered in the present study, as well as for neutrophil cells, reduced significantly after therapy in both allergic and nonallergic patients. The number of eosinophils was not significantly lower in nonallergic patients.Conclusion A 30-day topical treatment with glycyrrhizin and mannitol may improve nasal symptoms and reduce inflammatory cells in the nasal mucosa in patients with chronic rhinitis without significant contraindications. Further studies could support our results and would better clarify all the aspects of this treatment.