Nasal polyps in adulthood are usually associated with which asthma subtype?

Nasal polyps in adulthood are usually associated with which asthma subtype?

• A. Allergic rhinitis
• B. Asthma due to dust mites
• C. NSAID-induced asthma
• D. Exercise-induced asthma

Answer: (C)

Nasal polyps appearing in adulthood are a classic sign of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, a form of asthma that is sensitive to NSAIDs. In this syndrome, asthma, chronic nasal and sinus inflammation with polyps, and sensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs occur together. The underlying issue is an imbalance in arachidonic acid metabolism: blocking COX-1 with NSAIDs shifts production toward leukotrienes, which promotes bronchoconstriction and polyp formation. This distinct phenotype explains why nasal polyps in adults point to NSAID-induced asthma rather than the other options.

Nasal polyps appearing in adulthood are a classic sign of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, a form of asthma that is sensitive to NSAIDs. In this syndrome, asthma, chronic nasal and sinus inflammation with polyps, and sensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs occur together. The underlying issue is an imbalance in arachidonic acid metabolism: blocking COX-1 with NSAIDs shifts production toward leukotrienes, which promotes bronchoconstriction and polyp formation. This distinct phenotype explains why nasal polyps in adults point to NSAID-induced asthma rather than the other options.