[Allergologic evaluation in chronic rhinitis: study of 411 cases].

The present work reports the results of an allergological evaluation performed on 411 patients suffering from chronic rhinitis alone or associated with bronchial asthma. Allergic diagnosis was based on the results of skin prick tests, serum RAST, nasal provocation, allergy avoidance diets and food provocation. 207 patients were sensitized to one or more allergens (50.4%); mean age for onset of rhinitis was 14.9. The first ten years of age proved most relevant for onset of symptoms, while late onset was significant in females. The most common reactions were to house dust mites, most likely due to the local environmental-climatic conditions which favor the growth of Dermatophagoides. Olive-sensitization was frequently found in pollen-positive subjects. Careful allergological evaluation of chronic rhinitis is very important so as to establish the best treatment and environment prophylaxis for the disease.