Hematological Parameters in Patients with Allergic Rhinosinusitis Combined with Chronic Allergic Otitis Media

Abstract

Background: Allergic rhinosinusitis (ARS) and chronic allergic otitis media are common manifestations of upper airway allergic inflammation. Despite advances in understanding the immunopathogenesis of these conditions, hematological markers reflecting systemic immune activation remain underexplored, particularly in combined presentations. To evaluate hematological parameters, with emphasis on leukocyte subpopulations and the eosinophil-lymphocytic index, in patients with allergic rhinosinusitis combined with chronic allergic otitis media compared to non-allergic chronic otitis media.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 60 patient records from the otorhinolaryngology department of the National Medical Center “Shifobakhsh”, Republic of Tatarstan. Group I (n=30) included patients with allergic rhinosinusitis and chronic allergic otitis media; Group II (n=30), serving as controls, had chronic otitis media without allergic manifestations. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential was analyzed, and the eosinophil-lymphocytic index was calculated. Data were compared using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis.

Results: Patients with allergic rhinosinusitis and chronic allergic otitis media showed a relative increase in eosinophils and higher incidence of peripheral eosinophilia. Relative lymphocytosis was observed in 40% of Group I versus 16.7% in controls. The ELI was elevated in 43.3% of allergic patients. Leukocytosis was present in 16.7% of Group I and 40% of Group II. Absolute lymphocyte count was significantly lower in Group I. Correlation analysis revealed stable, strong relationships between segmented neutrophils and eosinophils, as well as neutrophils and monocytes, suggesting shared immunological pathways.

Conclusion: Hematological changes, particularly eosinophilia and elevated eosinophil-lymphocytic index, serve as indirect markers of systemic allergic sensitization in patients with combined Allergic rhinosinusitis and chronic allergic otitis media. While not diagnostic alone, these parameters may support clinical suspicion and reduce reliance on extensive allergological testing in resource-limited settings.