Histamine nasal provocation test: an evaluation of active anterior rhinomanometry and of threshold criteria of provocative dose

This study is a methodological approach to histamine nasal provocation. The test uses active anterior rhinomanometry and a histamine titration method, challenging both nasal cavities with a metered dose pump. It has been confirmed that the histamine nasal provocation test can differentiate between controls and non-allergic rhinitis patients. This study shows, moreover, that the method is more sensitive in assessing response to histamine provocation when a 25% increase of post-saline nasal airway resistance (PD25) is considered than a PD50 or PD100 criterion. The histamine response, was found to be independent of the baseline nasal airway resistance value. Pronounced unilateral responsiveness was frequently noticed. Both nasal cavities should be challenged and the most reactive side considered.