[Chronic rhinitis--clinical guidelines 2010].

Chronic rhinitis (CR) affects large populations worldwide, diagnosed in 40% of the population and is often associated with co-morbidities, such as asthma, sinusitis, rhinoconjunctivitis cognitive dysfunction, and leads to loss of work and school days. Recently, global clinical guidelines were proposed for allergic rhinitis (AR). Similarly, an Israeli expert panel, consisting of ENT and Allergy/Immunology specialists, was delegated to discuss the current approaches to CR (including allergic and non-allergic rhinitis) and to submit a consensus paper. The guidelines, briefly presented herein, describe the epidemiology, mechanisms, diagnostic procedures, treatment modalities and clinical-management algorithms. It is adapted to the Israeli health system and will be distributed to all physicians by the Israel Medical Association. The new clinical guidelines are expected to update current knowledge, improve communication between medical disciplines, provide medico-legal support and improve the management of CR.