Feasibility of MASK-air® use in allergic rhinitis patients receiving immunotherapy and the effect on quality of life

Abstract

Background: The aim of MASK-air® application is to enhance awareness of allergic rhinitis (AR) and its complications, thereby reducing the risk of developing asthma. Objective: The aims of this study were to evaluate the impact of MASK-air® on the quality of life (QoL) and symptomatology of AR patients undergoing allergen immunotherapy (AIT). The study also evaluated patient satisfaction with the application. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between August and November 2019 at a tertiary Allergy and Immunology center involving patients receiving AIT. Participants were instructed on accessing and utilizing MASK-air® daily through face-to-face interviews. Concurrently, the Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR) and the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) were administered alongside MASK-air® Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores. After 6 months, RQLQ scores were reassessed and a satisfaction survey was conducted. Results: This study comprised 96 patients. Significant correlations were observed among SFAR, RQLQ, and VAS scores. After 6 months of MASK-air® usage, improvements in QoL and symptom reduction were evident. Notably, participants who consistently used MASK-air® demonstrated significant reductions in activity limitations and hay fever scores compared to irregular users (p = 0.05 and p = 0.02, respectively). Additionally, participants under 40 years of age and those with higher education levels exhibited a greater inclination toward online monitoring via the application. Overall, participants found MASK-air® practical, citing various advantages and disadvantages. Conclusion: MASK-air® serves as a valuable tool for physicians in managing treatment and is associated with validated, reliable scales. Its use was linked to enhanced QoL and symptom reduction among participants, irrespective of treatment duration.