Treatment with nose drops containing the steroid fluticasone propionate can reduce the need for endoscopic sinus surgery in patients who have chronic Sinusitis and nasal polys, according to a new report.

The findings, which appear in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, are based on a study of 54 patients who were on a waiting list for sinus surgery. On a random basis, they were given either fluticasone nose drops or inactive placebo drops for 12 weeks.

Thirteen of 27 patients in the fluticasone group no longer required surgery when reevaluated with CT and standard scoring measures. On the other hand, just 6 of 27 participants in the placebo group no longer needed surgery, Dr. Albertien A. C. Aukema, from Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam, and colleagues found.

Compared with the placebo group, the individuals given fluticasone nose drops experienced a significant reduction in nasal obstruction symptoms, runny nose, postnasal drip and loss of smell.

In addition, peak air inflow via the nose increased and polyp volume decreased in the fluticasone group.

Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of fluticasone nose drops in reducing the need for surgery, the investigators conclude.

SOURCE: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, May 2005.