Decongestants, antihistamines and nasal irrigation for acute sinusitis in children

Abstract

Background: The efficacy of decongestants, antihistamines and nasal irrigation in children with clinically diagnosed acute sinusitis has not been systematically evaluated. Methods: Selection criteria: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs that evaluated children <18 years of age with acute sinusitis, defined as 10 to 30 days of rhinorrhea, congestion or daytime cough, were included. Trials involving children with chronic sinusitis and allergic rhinitis were excluded. Data analysis: Two review authors independently assessed each study for inclusion. Results: Of the 662 studies identified through the electronic and manual searches, none met all of the inclusion criteria. Conclusions: There is no evidence to determine whether the use of antihistamines, decongestants or nasal irrigation is efficacious in children with acute sinusitis. Further research is needed to determine whether these interventions are beneficial in the treatment of children with acute sinusitis.