Interactive Network Platform Improves Compliance and Efficacy of Subcutaneous Immunotherapy for Patients with Allergic Rhinitis

Zhiying Shen,1 Guolin Tan,2 Zhuqing Zhong,1 Siqing Ding,1 Fang Wang2 1Nursing Department, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Fang WangDepartment of Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzipo Road, Changsha 410013, People’s Republic of ChinaTel/Fax +86 731-88618624Email wangfang_xy3yy@163.comBackground: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of nasal mucosa worldwide, and its symptoms seriously affect the lives of patients. Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is an effective treatment for AR, but it is also associated with low patient compliance and difficulties in fully achieving therapeutic effects.Objective: In this prospective randomized controlled study, we verified the effects of an interactive network platform named “U breath” in improving patient compliance and the efficacy of SCIT in patients with AR.Methods: A total of 148 patients who received SCIT were recruited as participants and randomly assigned to either the standardized management (SM) or the interactive network platform management (INP) group. The SM group experienced the standard management SCIT process. The INP group experienced a new management approach based on an interactive network platform called “U breath”. The compliance rate, combined symptom and medication score (CSMS), visual analogue scale score and the rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) results were evaluated at baseline and 1-year postintervention for the two groups.Results: Within the first year of treatment, the INP group had a higher compliance rate than did the SM group, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.05). The INP group showed better clini