Application of Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow reference values in the treatment of allergic rhinitis

To assess the applicability of the Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) curves in follow-up of children in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Prospective study of 40 patients with AR, grouped in corticosteroid spray versus physiological saline solution use. Follow up for 10 weeks through clinical score and PNIF percentages in relation to the reference curves, with was-out at week 8. Statistical assessment of the effect of treatment on variation of PNIF and clinical score was calculated by ANOVA model and Multiple Comparison of Means Test - Least Significant Difference. There was a statistically significant influence of the group, time and interaction between time and group on PNIF percentages. Throughout follow up, patients from the treatment group had mean PNIF percentages significantly higher than the placebo group. Clinical score results also demonstrated a statistically significant influence between the groups, time and interaction between time and group. Increase in PNIF percentage values observed in children treated with intranasal corticosteroids revealed the applicability of PNIF curves in their follow up.