AERD (Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease)

AERD Subsection

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) has multiple endotypes including aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) that consists of the triad of sinus polyps, asthma and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug induced allergic reactions. AERD is characterized by a hypersensitivity to cyclooxygenase inhibitors (for example aspirin or ibuprofen), and elevated leukotriene E4 (LTE4) levels. A goal of this research effort is to determine if there are AERD sub-endotypes that are preditctive of treatment response. We also are interested in exploring the mechanisms underlying the sinus epithelial inflammatory response that may be unique to AERD. This work compliments the multi-disciplinary clinical efforts of the Penn AERD Center.