Images in infectious diseases in obstetrics and gynecology. Upper respiratory infections--allergic rhinitis.

Nose, throat, and upper respiratory conditions are leading causes of morbidity in women of all age groups. By looking slightly upward during anterior rhinoscopy, the examiner can see the middle turbinate (A). Because it is exposed to a wide variety of inhaled allergens, the nose is frequently involved in allergic disorders. The allergic response within the nose is typically pallor with edema of the nasal tissues accompanied by a clear, watery, nasal discharge. The turbinates are usually swollen and have a pale boggy, bluish coloration (B). Endoscopy can reveal an inflamed inferior turbinate (C).