Component-resolved diagnosis (CRD) has emerged as a valuable complement to conventional allergy testing by identifying specific allergenic molecules rather than whole allergen extracts. For otorhinolaryngologists managing patients with allergic rhinitis, polysensitization, oral allergy syndrome, or uncertain clinical–test correlations, CRD can provide a more precise understanding of the patient’s sensitization profile.

This instructional course will introduce the basic principles of molecular allergology and demonstrate how CRD can be incorporated into everyday rhinology practice. Particular emphasis will be placed on distinguishing genuine primary sensitization from cross-reactivity, recognizing major allergen components and panallergens, and interpreting sensitization to profilins, polcalcins, lipid transfer proteins, tropomyosins, and cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants. Clinically relevant examples involving grass, tree and weed pollens, house dust mites, moulds, and selected food allergens will be discussed.

Participants will learn how molecular findings may clarify apparently conflicting skin-prick test or specific IgE results, identify the allergen sources most likely to be responsible for symptoms, and improve the selection of allergens for allergen immunotherapy. The course will also address the limitations of CRD, including the distinction between sensitization and clinically relevant allergy, the need to interpret results within the context of exposure and symptom history, and situations in which molecular testing is unlikely to alter management.

Through case-based discussions, the course aims to provide otorhinolaryngologists with a practical framework for requesting, interpreting, and applying CRD appropriately. At the end of the session, participants should be able to use molecular allergy testing more confidently while avoiding both overdiagnosis and unnecessary allergen immunotherapy.