Allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis and desensitisation

This course provides a structured and in-depth approach to allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and desensitisation. Designed for healthcare professionals, it covers the latest diagnostic strategies, treatment guidelines, and clinical management techniques. The course consists of five key units:

Unit 1: Scope of the Problem
This introductory module outlines the prevalence, impact, and global burden of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis. It explores contributing factors such as urbanization, pollution, and climate change. The relationship between allergic rhinitis, asthma, and sinusitis is discussed, highlighting the concept of United Airways Disease. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how these conditions influence overall health, productivity, and quality of life.

Unit 2: Pathophysiology and Associated Conditions
This unit delves into the mechanisms behind allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, explaining how IgE-mediated reactions trigger symptoms. The course details the role of allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, as well as food allergens that may contribute to symptoms. Participants will also explore the concept of the atopic march—the progression of allergic diseases from childhood into adulthood—and how allergic rhinitis increases the risk of asthma and sinusitis.

Unit 3: Classification and Clinical Features
Here, the classification of allergic rhinitis is presented, including ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma) guidelines. The unit covers seasonal vs. perennial allergic rhinitis and different forms of allergic conjunctivitis, such as seasonal, perennial, vernal, and atopic keratoconjunctivitis. Clinical presentations, red flags, and physical examination findings are discussed with the aid of case studies and clinical images. The importance of taking a thorough history and identifying triggers is also emphasised.

Unit 4: Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Differential Diagnoses
This unit focuses on diagnostic strategies, including clinical assessments and allergy testing. Participants will learn about the indications for skin prick tests, serum-specific IgE tests, and patch testing. The differential diagnoses of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis—including non-allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and conjunctival infections—are covered in detail. Real-life case scenarios help reinforce how to distinguish allergic conditions from other similar presentations.

Unit 5: Management Strategies and Desensitisation
The final unit provides an in-depth look at treatment approaches, from patient education and allergen avoidance to pharmacotherapy and allergen immunotherapy. Medications such as antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and immunomodulators are discussed, along with their indications, contraindications, and real-world applications. Special considerations for managing allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis in pregnant and breastfeeding women are highlighted. The unit concludes with an overview of desensitisation techniques, including sublingual and subcutaneous immunotherapy, and a discussion on thunderstorm asthma.

This course is regularly updated to reflect the latest clinical guidelines and best practices. Perfect for general practitioners, allergists, and other healthcare professionals, it equips learners with practical tools to manage allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis effectively.