Exploring the Link between Polysensitization and Allergic Rhinitis Subtypes in Vietnamese Patients

INTRODUCTION: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is characterized by sensitization to various allergens, with polysensitization being a common phenomenon. This study investigated demographic and clinical characteristics, allergic sensitization profiles, and the association between sensitization and AR phenotypes in Vietnam. METHODS: A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to December 2024 at three hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Cho Ray Hospital, Thu Duc Hospital, and University Medical Center). Patients with AR were recruited and assessed in terms of their AR status and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores. All patients underwent a skin prick test (SPT) for common aeroallergens, including house dust mites, pet dander, cockroaches, molds, and grass pollen. Blood samples were collected to measure the total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, eosinophil count, and allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) levels. Patients were classified as polysensitized if they demonstrated positive IgE responses (either positive SPT, sIgE, or both) to two or more aeroallergen classes. RESULTS: One hundred forty-six participants were recruited, comprising 61 (41.78%) monosensitized AR, 62 (42.47%) polysensitized AR, and 23 (15.75%) non-allergic rhinitis (NAR) patients. Sensitized patients had a significantly younger age at onset, longer duration of illness, more frequent use of oral corticosteroids, and higher VAS scores (all p < 0.05) than NAR patients. The frequency of polysensitization was highest in moderate-severe AR groups, while NAR was highest in mild intermittent group. Sensitization to house dust mites was the most prevalent in all patients. CONCLUSION: This study highlighted the clinical and immunological differences between NAR, monosensitized, and polysensitized patients with AR, emphasizing the need for tailored management strategies for diverse patient populations.