RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Postgraduate Course ERS Copenhagen 2005: Biological and therapeutic implications of the united airways concept JF Breathe JO Breathe FD European Respiratory Society SP 231 OP 235 DO 10.1183/18106838.0203.231 VO 2 IS 3 A1 G-J. Braunstahl YR 2006 UL http://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/2/3/231.abstract AB Key pointsRhinitis is an important risk factor for the development of asthma.The nose interacts with the bronchi through the systemic circulation.Treatment of allergic rhinitis in patients with concomitant asthma provides better asthma control.Novel therapies are aimed at the systemic elements of allergic airway disease.Educational aimsTo introduce the factors involved in the expression of allergic phenotypes.To define the mechanisms that may play a role in nasobronchial cross-talk.To identify current and future therapies for combined asthma and rhinitis.Summary The condition of the nose affects the bronchi and vice versa. Local allergen exposure leads to a generalised airway response in atopic individuals, involving the systemic circulation. Therefore, upper and lower airways need to be regarded as one functional entity. This also has implications for rhinitis and asthma therapy, providing a rationale for combined treatment of both upper and lower airways. The systemic link between the upper and lower airways may provide new opportunities for systemic treatment.