Feasibility of MASK-air® use in allergic rhinitis patients receiving immunotherapy and the effect on quality of life

Abstract

Background: The aim of MASK-air (R) application is to enhance awareness of allergic rhinitis (AR) and its complications, thereby reducing the risk of developing asthma. Objective: The aims of this study were to evaluate the impact of MASK-air (R) on the quality of life (QoL) and symptomatology of AR patients undergoing allergen immunotherapy (AIT). The study also evaluated patient satisfaction with the application. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between August and November 2019 at a tertiary Allergy and Immunology center involving patients receiving AIT. Participants were instructed on accessing and utilizing MASK-air (R) daily through face-toface interviews. Concurrently, the Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR) and the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) were administered alongside MASK-air (R) Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores. After 6 months, RQLQ scores were reassessed and a satisfaction survey was conducted. Results: This study comprised 96 patients. Significant correlations were observed among SFAR, RQLQ, and VAS scores. After 6 months of MASK-air (R) usage, improvements in QoL and symptom reduction were evident. Notably, participants who consistently used MASK-air (R) demonstrated significant reductions in activity limitations and hay fever scores compared to irregular users (p = 0.05 and p = 0.02, respectively). Additionally, participants under 40 years of age and those with higher education levels exhibited a greater inclination toward online monitoring via the application. Overall, participants found MASK-air (R) practical, citing various advantages and disadvantages. Conclusion: MASK-air (R) serves as a valuable tool for physicians in managing treatment and is associated with validated, reliable scales. Its use was linked to enhanced QoL and symptom reduction among participants, irrespective of treatment duration. (c) 2025 Codon Publications. Published by Codon Publications.