Clinical Implication of Tests for Prostate-specific Antigen in Brain-dead Organ Donors

BACKGROUND

Although cancer screening tests are not mentioned under brain-dead organ donor care guidelines in Korea, we assessed the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), an important prostate cancer marker, and performed prostate biopsies when needed in brain-dead organ donors. We believe that insisting on a screening test for cancer diagnosis in donors' organs is important.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected between January 2010 and July 2015 from Ajou University Hospital. We retrospectively analyzed the PSA levels and prostate biopsy results in 111 male brain-dead organ donors (mean age, 48.4 years).

RESULTS

The mean PSA level was 7.395 ng/mL (range, 0.062 to 61.780; reference, 0 to 4 ng/mL). Ultrasonography or computed tomographic examination did not reveal prostate cancer, and a rectal examination was not performed. After checking the PSA levels, prostate biopsies were performed in 16 patients based on the recommendations of a urologist, and 4 patients (3.6% of 111) were diagnosed with prostate cancer. All cancers involved adenocarcinomas (acinar type) histopathologically. In 2 patients, the Gleason score was 6 (3 + 3), whereas the other 2 showed a score of 7 (3 + 4). Among the patients diagnosed with prostate cancer, 1 donated his liver and corneas, and the remaining 3 could not donate.

CONCLUSION

Well-defined cancer screening tests are needed in Korea. Additionally, when the probability of organ transplantation-induced cancer metastasis is low or a recipient is at a high risk owing to not receiving organs, the law should allow organ donation even if prostate cancer is diagnosed in the donor.

Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Pseudo-Subarachnoid Haemorrhage who were Successfully Resuscitated from Out-of-Hospital Cardiopulmonary Arrest

Introduction

Pseudo-subarachnoid haemorrhage (PSAH) is a rare neuroradiological finding seen in patients with diffuse cerebral edemas. We investigated clinical characteristics and risk factors for the development of PSAH.

Method

The successfully resuscitated patients in emergency department were classified into two groups: those with pseudo-SAH [PSAH (+)] and those without pseudo-SAH [PSAH (-)]. Clinical variables were analysed.

Results

Pseudo-SAH was found in 31.6% of patients. PSAH was more common in males (p=0.042). The mean age was 39.9±10.3 years in the PSAH (+) group and 54.4±22.0 years in the PSAH (-) group (p=0.038). Outcomes measured by Cerebral Performance Category score were also significantly different between the two groups (p=0.037). Logistic regression analysis found that serum lactate concentration and duration of anoxia were associated with the development of PSAH (with odds ratios and p values of 1.92, p=0.01 and 1.13, p=0.02, respectively).

Conclusions

PSAH itself is a phenomenon that could be seen in post-resuscitation encephalopathy as a consequence of severe anoxic insult.

Resveratrol prevents development of eosinophilic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in a mouse model

BACKGROUND

Since the recent establishment of a murine model of eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), both the development of new drugs for treatment or prevention of eosinophilic CRSwNP and elucidation of their pathogenesis have been feasible. We investigated the therapeutic effects of resveratrol on CRSwNP and its mechanism of action using a murine model.

METHODS

After induction of eosinophilic CRSwNP, the therapeutic effects of resveratrol were tested and compared with those of triamcinolone acetonide. Histopathologic changes were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin for overall inflammation, Sirius red for eosinophils, and Masson's trichrome stain for collagen. The expression levels of the interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, prostaglandin D synthase, and leukotriene C4 synthase genes were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. Cyclooxygense-2 and 5-lipoxygense levels were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

The degree of eosinophilic infiltration and subepithelial fibrosis was significantly decreased by administration of high-dose resveratrol, the potency of which was similar to that of triamcinolone acetonide. The expression levels of the IL-4, IL-5, prostaglandin D synthase, and leukotriene C4 synthase genes were significantly decreased by administration of low- or high-dose resveratrol. The production of 5-lipoxygenase was strongly inhibited by high-dose resveratrol.

CONCLUSIONS

Resveratrol may be useful for the prevention of eosinophilic CRSwNP. A key mechanism of its action is believed to be its anti-inflammatory effect, particularly on eosinophils, by inhibiting the lipoxygenase pathway.

Characteristics and risk factors of mucosal cysts in the paranasal sinuses

BACKGROUND

Though mucosal cysts in the paranasal sinuses (PSMCs) are common findings on radiographic images, the nature of PSMCs and risk factors for the development of PSMCs have not yet been determined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of PSMCs using brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL

A total of 6831 subjects who underwent health checkup including brain MR imaging were included in this study. The characteristics of PSMCs, including their location, number and size, as well as the presence of obstruction of the sinus ostium and sinusitis, were analysed using brain MR images. Structured questionnaires and medical records were reviewed to evaluate the smoking status and comorbid medical conditions.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of PSMCs was 7.4% and was significantly higher in females than in males. PSMCs were most commonly found in the maxillary sinus, most of which were located unilaterally as a solitary cyst. Large cysts were associated with obstruction of the sinus ostium and subsequent sinusitis. Smoking was a single important risk factor for developing PSMCs. No significant associations were found between symptoms (nasal/respiratory) and the presence of PSMCs.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of PSMCs was 7.4% and decreased with age. Large cysts may lead to obstruction of the sinus and subsequent sinusitis. Smoking was an important risk factor for PSMCs, and the total amount of smoking correlated with cyst size. Most subjects were asymptomatic, and specific treatment was not performed.

Acute diarrheal syndromic surveillance: effects of weather and holidays

OBJECTIVE

In an effort to identify and characterize the environmental factors that affect the number of patients with acute diarrheal (AD) syndrome, we developed and tested two regional surveillance models including holiday and weather information in addition to visitor records, at emergency medical facilities in the Seoul metropolitan area of Korea.

METHODS

With 1,328,686 emergency department visitor records from the National Emergency Department Information system (NEDIS) and the holiday and weather information, two seasonal ARIMA models were constructed: (1) The simple model (only with total patient number), (2) the environmental factor-added model. The stationary R-squared was utilized as an in-sample model goodness-of-fit statistic for the constructed models, and the cumulative mean of the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) was used to measure post-sample forecast accuracy over the next 1 month.

RESULTS

The (1,0,1)(0,1,1)7 ARIMA model resulted in an adequate model fit for the daily number of AD patient visits over 12 months for both cases. Among various features, the total number of patient visits was selected as a commonly influential independent variable. Additionally, for the environmental factor-added model, holidays and daily precipitation were selected as features that statistically significantly affected model fitting. Stationary R-squared values were changed in a range of 0.651-0.828 (simple), and 0.805-0.844 (environmental factor-added) with p<0.05. In terms of prediction, the MAPE values changed within 0.090-0.120 and 0.089-0.114, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The environmental factor-added model yielded better MAPE values. Holiday and weather information appear to be crucial for the construction of an accurate syndromic surveillance model for AD, in addition to the visitor and assessment records.

Multicenter study on the prevalence of perennial allergic rhinitis and allergy-associated disorders

Multicenter Study on the Prevalence of Perennial Allergic Rhinitis and Allergy-Associated Disorders This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) using the skin test, radioallergosorbent test (RAST), or multiple allergosorbent test (MAST) and to clarify the clinical aspects of the patients diagnosed as having PAR by the questionnaire survey and rhinologic examination. The 71,120 subjects who had visited the 23 otolaryngology clinics at the randomly selected tertiary referral hospitals in Korea between November 1, 1999 and April 30, 2000 were studied. PAR was diagnosed when subjects complained of two or more associated symptoms and the skin test, RAST, or MAST using perennial inhalant allergens was positive. The questionnaire survey and rhinologic examination were performed in subjects with PAR. The prevalence of PAR was 3.93%. We could find no significant difference in the prevalence of PAR between the two sexes. However, there was a significant difference in the prevalence of PAR between the child and adult groups. The chief complaints were, in order of decreasing frequency, nasal obstruction, watery rhinorrhea, and sneezing. There was a family history of PAR in 40.2% of the subjects. The 39.6% of the subjects had associated allergic diseases, being atopic dermatitis most common. In conclusion, the prevalence of PAR in tertiary referral hospitals in Korea is 3.93%. Many subjects with PAR have family history and appear to be associated with other allergic diseases.

Ciliary beat frequency in cultured human nasal epithelial cells

This study aimed to determine the characteristics of ciliogenesis and the ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of cultured human nasal epithelial cells by means of an in vitro air-liquid interface (ALI) culture system. On the 14th, 21st, and 27th days of ALI culture, CBFs of cultured cells were measured with a video computerized analysis system, and the epithelial cell-collagen matrix complex was examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Using a CBF distribution map, we calculated the proportion of ciliary beating area (CBA) on the cultured cells. On the 14th day, ciliated cells could be easily distinguished from other cells on scanning electron microscopy by their elongated cilia. Between the 14th and 27th days, the number of mature cilia increased, and after 27 days of air exposure, the cilia of each cell pointed to one direction. From the beginning of air-exposure culture until the 7th day, the number of secretory cells increased; however, from the 7th day to the 27th day, it decreased, and the number of ciliated cells increased. Total CBAs increased from the 7th day to the 21st day. The proportions of actively beating cells and the mean CBFs of beating cells among cultured epithelial cells increased with culture time. On the 21st day, the mean CBF of the cultured cells was similar to that of nasal ciliated cells in biopsy specimens (10.9 +/- 0.5 Hz versus 11.4 +/- 1.3 Hz), but until the 27th day, the CBF of cultured cells increased significantly (13.9 +/- 0.8 Hz). It is suggested that there may be some difference in CBF between nasal epithelial cells submitted to biopsy and nasal epithelial cells cultured by the ALI culture system.

Endoscopic removal of the antral portion of antrochoanal polyp by powered instrumentation

OBJECTIVES

To introduce a new surgical technique for endoscopic removal of the antral portion of antrochoanal polyp (ACP) by powered instrumentation and to determine its efficacy by measures of relevant patient outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective study in 28 patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery for ACP by our surgical technique.

METHODS

Improvements of clinical symptoms and endoscopic and computed tomographic findings were evaluated postoperatively with a follow-up period ranging from 12 to 52 months. All symptom scores on a 100-mm visual analogue scale before operation were compared with those at the last visit after operation. Postoperative endoscopic and computed tomographic findings were graded using a three-point scale ranging from 0 to 2. In surgical technique, the antral portion of ACP was identified through the enlarged ostium under intranasal endoscopy and removed by a blade of powered instrumentation that was inserted through the canine fossa.

RESULTS

Symptom scores were all significantly reduced postoperatively. All but one patient showed improvement in clinical symptoms and endoscopic and computed tomographic findings during the follow-up period. There were no major complications specific to this technique.

CONCLUSION

Our technique provides an attractive alternative to other methods for removing the antral portion of an ACP and is associated with excellent outcomes and minimal morbidities.

Hypertonic saline decreases ciliary movement in human nasal epithelium in vitro

Various saline solution formulae are frequently used in patients with rhinosinusitis. Osmolarity affects ciliary beat frequency (CBF); however, little is known about the effects of saline solutions on ciliary activity of nasal epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to assess whether CBF of normal turbinate mucosa is affected by hypertonic, isotonic, or hypotonic saline solution in vitro and whether histologic changes are associated with the alteration of ciliary movement. We assessed variations of CBF after exposure to 0.06%, 0.12%, 0.9%, 3.0%, or 7.0% saline solutions and histologic changes were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Isotonic and hypotonic solutions produced no ciliary slowing; however, ciliostasis was observed within a few minutes in 3.0% or 7.0% solution. The histologic changes demonstrated that the ciliary slowing might be attributed to epithelial damage by fluid transport toward the surrounding medium. In conclusion, hypertonic saline solutions decrease CBF and disrupt nasal epithelial cells in vitro.

Regulation of mucociliary motility by nitric oxide and expression of nitric oxide synthase in the human sinus epithelial cells

OBJECTIVES

This study was performed to investigate the changes in ciliary beat frequency (CBF) after treatment with Larginine in the human sinus mucosa and to determine the distribution of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the healthy sinus mucosa.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

CBF was measured in the sphenoid sinus mucosa of 12 patients who underwent trans-septal trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy for the treatment of pituitary gland tumor. CBF was measured over 24 hours in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) after treatment with L-arginine, its inactive spatial isomer D-arginine, or an NOS inhibitor, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). DMEM without treatment with these materials was used as a control. Other pieces of the mucosa were exposed to L-NAME and its inactive spatial isomer D-NAME after preincubation with L-arginine. The specimens were immunohistochemically stained for iNOS and eNOS.

RESULTS

CBF increased 24 hours after treatment with L-arginine as compared with control groups. CBF increased in proportion to the increasing concentrations of L-arginine. There was no significant change after treatment with D-arginine or L-NAME. CBF increased after treatment with L-arginine at 30 minutes and maintained for 24 hours. L-NAME inhibited the increase in CBF by L-arginine, but D-NAME showed no such effect. Immunoreactivity to both iNOS and eNOS was frequently observed in the ciliated epithelial cells and was stronger to eNOS than to iNOS.

CONCLUSIONS

From the results of this study it is suggested that nitric oxide (NO) produced by iNOS and eNOS using L-arginine may increase CBF in the healthy sinus mucosa and that NO may have a regulatory function in ciliary motility in the human sinus mucosa.

Changes of nasal function after temperature-controlled radiofrequency tissue volume reduction for the turbinate

OBJECTIVES

Temperature-controlled and temperature-monitored radiofrequency tissue volume reduction (RFTVR) for the turbinate is a new treatment modality for nasal obstruction secondary to turbinate hypertrophy. We compared the nasal functions after the treatment ofRFTVR and laser vaporizing turbinoplasty (LVT) using subjective symptom scores and objective tests.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

Twenty-four patients with nasal obstruction secondary to inferior turbinate hypertrophy were prospectively evaluated from March 1999 to October 1999 at Seoul National University Hospital (Seoul, Korea). Sixteen patients were treated with RFTVR, and eight patients with LVT. The preoperative and postoperative nasal functions were investigated by visual analogue scale of symptoms, butanol threshold test, saccharine test, acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry, and ciliary beat frequency.

RESULTS

At 8 weeks postoperatively, the severity and the frequency of nasal obstruction improved subjectively in 81.3% and 93.8% of RFTVR group and in 87.5% and 87.5% of LVT group, respectively. Significant improvement of nasal symptoms began from 2 to 3 days after the operation in the RFTVR group, whereas there was significant improvement of nasal symptoms at 8 weeks after operation in the LVT group. However, objective nasal functions including nasal volume and total nasal resistance were significantly improved at 8 weeks after surgery in both groups. Among patients reporting symptoms of hyposmia, 55.6% of RFTVR group and 63.6% of LVT group showed improved olfaction. Saccharin transit time and ciliary beat frequency were preserved after RFTVR CONCLUSION: RFTVR for the turbinate may be useful as an alternative approach for the treatment of chronic turbinate hypertrophy.

Effects of beta-toxin of Staphylococcus aureus on ciliary activity of nasal epithelial cells

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the in vitro effects of staphylococcal beta-toxin on ciliary activity and the in vivo effects on sinusitis induction.

STUDY DESIGN

The in vitro effects of staphylococcal beta-toxin on ciliary activity were investigated at different concentrations and exposure times. Experimental sinusitis was induced in rabbits with application of beta-toxin and confirmed 7 days later.

METHODS

Ciliated epithelial cells were taken from the maxillary sinus mucosa of 10 rabbits. Five culture dishes from each rabbit were used for the experimental group, and one culture dish from each rabbit was used for the control group. In the experimental group, ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was measured at concentrations of 0.1, 1, 2, 5 and 10 U/mL of beta-toxin using a video-computerized analysis technique, while in the control group, culture medium containing no toxin was used. CBF was measured 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours after administration of beta-toxin. To induce experimental sinusitis, 2 U/mL of beta-toxin was percutaneously applied to the maxillary sinus of 10 rabbits without occlusion of the natural ostium, while normal saline was percutaneously applied to the right-side maxillary sinus of 4 rabbits in the control group. At 7 days, mucosal membranes were taken from the inferomedial wall of the maxillary sinus for light microscopic study.

RESULTS

CBF dropped significantly after an 8-hour incubation at 2, 5, and 10 U/mL of beta-toxin. No ciliary activity was observed after a 24-hour incubation at 2 and 5 U/mL and a 12-hour incubation at 10 U/mL of beta-toxin. Mucoid, purulent discharge was observed in the maxillary sinuses of the beta-toxin-applied group. Prominent epithelial disruption and infiltration of inflammatory cells into the epithelium and lamina propria were observed in the beta-toxin-applied group.

CONCLUSIONS

Staphylococcal beta-toxin may reduce ciliary activity and induce sinusitis without occlusion of the natural ostium of the maxillary sinus in rabbits This study provides another animal model of sinusitis for understanding the pathogenesis of sinusitis induced by bacterial exotoxins.

Ultrastructural changes in platelet activating factor-induced epithelial damage in rabbit maxillary sinus mucosa

Platelet activating factor (PAF), a potent chemical mediator in inflammation and allergic reaction, has been thought to induce mucociliary inhibition and epithelial damage in the airway mucosa. However, several recent papers have reported that PAF may not readily damage the airway epithelium. The aim of this study was to elucidate the pathogenesis of PAF-induced epithelial damage in terms of ultrastructural changes. Sixteen micrograms of PAF (1 mL of 16 microg/mL) was administered into the maxillary sinuses of rabbits. The rabbits were divided into 2 groups according to time intervals, and the antral mucosa was taken 1 and 3 days after administration of PAF. The tissue was processed for routine transmission electron microscopy. No epithelial degeneration was observed other than platelet aggregation, red blood cell stasis, and swelling of the endothelial cells 1 day after administration of PAF. Migration of inflammatory cells into the perivascular connective tissue, infiltration of eosinophils into the subepithelial and intraepithelial spaces, and vacuolar degeneration of the epithelial cells with focal loss of cilia were seen 3 days after administration of PAF. In conclusion, PAF induced infiltration of eosinophils into the epithelium, and resulted in epithelial degeneration that varied according to the time interval. Our findings suggest that PAF may cause epithelial damage through a series of secondary events, probably due to cytotoxicity of eosinophils infiltrating the epithelium.

The role of cytokines in rhinosinusitis

Since the last decade, new insights into inflammatory processes have become possible by investigating the pattern of cytokines in acute and chronic sinus diseases. This review aims to update and discuss the findings of in vitro and in vivo studies concerning the role of cytokines in sinusitis and nasal polyposis. The proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1beta, interleukin-6 and the neutrophil-chemoattractant interleukin-8 may play a major role in acute sinusitis, as shown in viral and allergic rhinitis. In chronic sinusitis interleukin-3 dominates the cytokine profiles, giving support to a variety of inflammatory cells. Interleukin-5 is a key protein in the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis. Activation and survival of eosinophils in nasal polyps are thought to be regulated by interleukin-5. Further investigation of cytokine expression patterns in inflammatory sinus diseases will lead to a better understanding of their pathogenesis and to a development of new therapeutic modality.

Effects of clarithromycin on rheological properties of nasal mucus in patients with chronic sinusitis

Macrolide antibiotics have a variety of actions along with antimicrobial action. To determine the effects of oral administration of clarithromycin (CAM) on rheological properties, we measured the spinability, dynamic viscoelasticity, and solid composition of human nasal mucus from 18 patients with chronic sinusitis before and after administration of CAM for 4 weeks. After administration of CAM, the spinability and percent solid composition of nasal mucus increased from 26.5 +/- 12.2 mm to 40.2 +/- 18.7 mm and 7.86% +/- 3.47% to 13.90% +/- 3.67% (p < .05), respectively, whereas the ratio of the viscosity to the elasticity (eta'/G') of nasal mucus after the administration of CAM decreased in all of the mucus samples. These results suggest that treatment with CAM may modulate the rheological properties of nasal mucus in patients with chronic sinusitis.

The effect of regular salbutamol on lung function and bronchial responsiveness in patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia

STUDY OBJECTIVE

There is growing evidence that regular beta(2)-agonist use in patients with asthma is associated with decreased airway caliber and increased bronchial responsiveness. The aim of this study was to determine whether regular treatment with beta(2)-agonists induces changes in lung function and bronchial responsiveness in patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia.

DESIGN

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study.

PATIENTS

Nineteen children with primary ciliary dyskinesia.

INTERVENTIONS

Subjects received inhaled salbutamol or identical placebo (2 x 100 microg qid) for periods of 6 weeks with a wash-out period of 4 weeks.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

FEV(1) was measured before and 3 weeks and 6 weeks after salbutamol or placebo treatment. High-dose methacholine inhalation tests were performed before and 6 weeks after each treatment. The provocative concentration of methacholine producing a 20% fall in FEV(1) (PC(20)) and maximal airway narrowing (MDeltaFFEV(1)) was measured. No significant change in FEV(1) was observed during the salbutamol or placebo periods. No significant differences in the parameters of bronchial responsiveness (PC(20) and MDeltaFFEV(1)) were noted as the result of either salbutamol or placebo treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our data have shown that salbutamol, inhaled regularly for 6 weeks, did not cause either a decline in lung function or an increase in bronchial responsiveness in subjects with primary ciliary dyskinesia.

Effects of alpha-toxin of Staphylococcus aureus on the ciliary activity and ultrastructure of human nasal ciliated epithelial cells

OBJECTIVE

The in vitro effects of staphylococcal alpha-toxin on ciliary activity were investigated at different concentrations and exposure times.

STUDY DESIGN

Ciliated epithelial cells of the sphenoid sinus were taken from patients operated on for pituitary tumors. Video-computerized analysis technique and transmission electron microscopy were used to analyze the effects of the toxin on ciliary activity.

METHODS

Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was measured in four different concentrations of alpha-toxin including 0.1, 1, 10, and 50 microg/mL. CBF was measured at 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after administration of the toxin. To observe reversibility of the reduced ciliary activity, after 24-hour incubation in the media containing 10 microg/mL of alpha-toxin, the media were replaced with alpha-toxin-free media. The tissues were also processed for transmission electron microscopy to observe ultrastructural changes of the epithelial cells.

RESULTS

CBF increased significantly at 2-hour incubation and then decreased significantly after 12-hour incubation in 10 microg/mL of alpha-toxin (P< .05, repeated-measures ANOVA). The transmission electron microscopic findings showed mitochondrial swelling and a slight protrusion of the plasma membrane of the cilia. In toxin-free media, loss of ciliary activity was not recovered.

CONCLUSIONS

CBF increased at first, but with increasing incubation time ciliary movements decreased gradually and stopped eventually. This loss of CBF may be an irreversible change associated with ultrastructural changes in the mitochondria and the plasma membrane of the cilia.

Expression of the MAGE 3 gene product in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck

BACKGROUND

The melanoma antigen (MAGE) 3 gene may be a useful tumor specific marker since it is expressed in a variety of cancers.

MATERIALS & METHOD

The expression and intracellular location of MAGE 3 gene product were investigated in 40 squamous cell carcinomas, 2 tumor lines, 20 benign diseases, and 20 normal tissues of the head and neck. Immunohistochemical staining with anti-MAGE 3 mAb 57B was conducted from fresh frozen specimens. Correlations between MAGE 3 expression and clinicopathological parameters were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The MAGE 3 gene product was detected in squamous cell carcinomas (18/40, 45%) and in tumor cell lines (2/2, 100%), but not in benign diseases and normal tissues. No significant correlation was drawn between MAGE 3 expression and clinical parameters including clinical stages and metastasis.

CONCLUSION

These results show MAGE 3 antigen could represent a potential target for immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas.

Increased expression of IL-4, IL-5, IFN-gamma, IL-6, IL-8, and TGF-beta mRNAs in maxillary mucosa of patients with chronic sinusitis

This study aimed to investigate expression of various cytokine mRNAs, including IL-6, IL-8, TGF-beta, IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-gamma in maxillary sinus mucosa of patients with chronic sinusitis. Maxillary sinus mucosae of six patients with chronic sinusitis and turbinate mucosae of six healthy subjects were obtained. We performed RT-PCR and Southern blot to examine gene expression of the cytokines IL-6, IL-8, TGF-beta, IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-gamma in maxillary sinus mucosa and compared the results with cytokine gene expressions in normal turbinate mucosa. IL-6, IL-8, TGF-beta, IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-gamma mRNAs were expressed more frequently in maxillary sinus mucosa from patients with chronic sinusitis than in normal turbinate mucosa. All the maxillary sinus mucosa specimens revealed relatively higher mean density ratio for each cytokine investigated than did normal turbinate mucosa. IL-6, IL-8, TGF-beta, IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-gamma mRNAs were expressed simultaneously in maxillary sinus mucosa of chronic sinusitis. These cytokines may be responsible for recruitment of inflammatory cells and for mucosal thickening in chronic sinusitis, and thus chronicity of the disease.

Distribution of rantes and interleukin-5 in allergic nasal mucosa and nasal polyps

Eosinophil-chemoattracting cytokines are thought to be important in the pathogenesis of allergic inflammation. However, little is known about the presence and significance of RANTES in nasal allergy and nasal polyps, two well-known rhinologic disorders characterized by eosinophil infiltration in the tissue. In order to evaluate the role of RANTES in eosinophil infiltration in vivo, the tissue distributions of RANTES and interleukin-5 (IL-5) and their correlation with eosinophil infiltration were investigated. Nasal mucosa specimens were obtained from 9 allergic and 12 control subjects, and nasal polyps from 6 allergic and 9 nonallergic subjects. All the subjects were divided into 4 groups: normal mucosa, allergic mucosa, nonallergic polyps, and allergic polyps. To identify the cellular localizations of RANTES and IL-5, we used specific immunohistochemical staining. We also investigated the differences in cytokine expression among the 4 groups, and the correlation between cytokine expression and eosinophil infiltration in the tissue. RANTES was expressed in the epithelium, endothelium, and some submucosal cells, while IL-5 was confined to the cells in the submucosa. Expression of both RANTES and IL-5 significantly increased in allergic mucosa and nasal polyps compared to normal mucosa; however, there was no significant difference in their expression between allergic and nonallergic polyps. Both cytokines had a significant correlation between their expression and either total or activated eosinophil numbers. The results of this study suggest that RANTES, as well as IL-5, plays a role in eosinophil recruitment in allergic nasal mucosa and nasal polyps in vivo.

Effects of free radicals on ciliary movement in the human nasal epithelial cells

OBJECTIVE

There have been few reports on the effects of free oxygen radicals on ciliary mobility of nasal respiratory epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of free radicals and antioxidants on human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) using video-computerized analysis.

METHODS

Human nasal epithelial cells were obtained from the nasal cavity of normal volunteers. Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was calculated as the mean value of ten randomly selected cells. The proportion of the area with normal CBF (above 8 Hz) was calculated from 10 randomly selected sites per specimen. Free radicals were produced by xanthine-xanthine oxidase enzymatic system. The generation of free radicals was confirmed by chemoilluminometer. CBF and the proportion of the area with normal CBF were measured at every 5 min for 30 min after the addition of enzyme. For the evaluation of the antioxidant effects on free radical-mediated ciliary slowing in HNECs, cells were incubated in superoxide dismutase solution (300 unit/ml) for 30 min and 3-aminobenzamide (5 mM).

RESULTS

Superoxide produced by 0.4 mM xanthine and 400 miliunit/ml xanthine oxidase decreased CBF (7.71 +/- 1.91 Hz). A total of 2 min later, ciliary slowing was evident (3.87 +/- 1.10 Hz). Regarding the changes in proportion of epithelial area that showed normal CBF experimental group showed a significant decrease in percentage of epithelial area with normal CBF over time. Superoxide dismutase prevented ciliary slowing (8.76 +/- 0.99 Hz). Moreover, 3-aminobenzamide, an inhibitor of the DNA repair enzyme poly-ADP ribose polymerase, prevented inhibition of CBF (8.32 +/- 0.61 Hz).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that oxygen-mediated damage to DNA may be the mechanism of the deterioration effects of oxygen radicals on the ciliated respiratory nasal epithelium.

Effects of mucokinetic drugs on rheological properties of reconstituted human nasal mucus

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of mucokinetic drugs on the rheological properties of human nasal mucus in patients with chronic sinusitis.

DESIGN

We reconstituted human nasal mucus obtained from 74 patients with chronic sinusitis and determined the effects of 4 mucokinetic drugs, including acetylcysteine, deoxynuclease I, 2% sodium bicarbonate, and a combination product containing tyloxapol (Alevaire), on rheological properties of reconstituted human nasal mucus (RHNM). We used 5% RHNM dissolved in phosphate-buffered solution as the optimal buffer and concentration of RHNM for the study because it showed a viscoelastic response similar to that of freshly collected nasal mucus from patients with chronic sinusitis.

METHODS

Four experiments were performed to determine the influence of each drug on dynamic viscosity and elasticity of 5% RHNM. Distilled water was used as a control.

RESULTS

Acetylcysteine and deoxynuclease I significantly decreased both dynamic viscosity and elastic modulus, while distilled water had no effect on rheological properties of 5% RHNM in vitro. Alevaire significantly reduced both dynamic viscosity and elastic modulus. Sodium bicarbonate significantly reduced elastic modulus but not dynamic viscosity. Reduction of elastic modulus by Alevaire was significantly greater than that by sodium bicarbonate, while there was no difference in reduction of dynamic viscosity between them.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that RHNM may be useful for studying the topical effects of various drugs on nasal mucus from patients with chronic sinusitis.

Effects of IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta on ciliary beat frequency of human nasal ciliated epithelial cells in vitro

Previous reports suggested that several cytokines may influence the ciliary beat of the airway ciliated epithelial cells. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of cytokines including IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta on ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of human nasal ciliated epithelial cells. CBF of cultured human nasal ciliated epithelial cells was measured 24 hours after incubating with concentrations of 0.01 ng/mL, 0.1 ng/mL, 1 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, and 100 ng/mL of each recombinant human (rh) cytokine including rhIL-1 beta, rhTNF-alpha, and rhTGF-beta. CBF was measured with time at concentrations of 1 ng/mL of rhIL-1 beta, 10 ng/mL of TNF-alpha, and 1 ng/mL of TGF-beta solutions. CBF of the human nasal ciliated epithelial cells increased after addition of rhIL-1 beta and rhTNF-alpha. Maximum CBF was observed at 1 ng/mL of rhIL-1 beta and at 10 ng/mL of rhTNF-alpha. CBF increased progressively to 4 hours after addition of rhIL-1 beta and rhTNF-alpha. Increased CBF sustained for 24 hours and decreased by 2 days. However, no variation of CBF was observed after addition of rhTGF-beta, regardless of concentrations and time. The results of this study suggest that during acute inflammation, IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha may have a potential role in defense mechanism of human nasal epithelium by regulating CBF of the nasal ciliated epithelial cells.

A familial predisposition in bronchial hyperresponsiveness among patients with allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Nonasthmatic subjects with allergic rhinitis often have bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR). The mechanisms responsible for BHR in asthma include genetic predisposition and airway inflammation, but the causes of BHR in allergic rhinitis are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a familial predisposition in allergic rhinitis-associated BHR.

METHODS

One hundred fifteen children with allergic rhinitis (probands) and their family members underwent methacholine bronchial challenge and skin prick tests with airborne allergens. The probands were divided into 2 groups: BHR(+) (methacholine PC20 <18 mg/mL determined by the dosimeter method; n = 42) and BHR(-) (n = 73).

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of BHR was higher in family members of BHR(+) probands than in those of BHR(-) probands (23.3% [27 of 116] vs 10.5% [21 of 200], P <.01). In mothers, this difference was marked (21.4% vs 8.2%, P <.05); a similar trend was observed in fathers (16.7% vs 6.8%) and siblings (34.4% vs 18.5%), although the differences did not reach significance (.05 < P <.1). The bronchial responsiveness index (BR index), a continuous variable derived from the results of methacholine challenge, was significantly higher among family members of the BHR(+) group than those of the BHR(-) group. Furthermore, even when only family members without BHR were considered, the BR index was significantly higher among those (n = 89) of the BHR(+) group than those (n = 179) of the BHR(-) group. There was no difference in atopic status as assessed by the prevalence of atopy (or atopy index) between family members of the BHR(+) group and the BHR(-) group.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that there is a significant familial predisposition for BHR among patients with allergic rhinitis. Further studies are needed to elucidate whether genetic factors play a role in allergic rhinitis-associated BHR.

Cytokine gene expression in nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are the most common mass lesion of the nasal cavity. Various pathogenetic mechanisms have been proposed. However, the cause is still largely unknown, and treatment methods have not been changed for several hundred years. In order to investigate the role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of nasal polyps, expression of cytokine messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in nasal polyps was investigated. We performed reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Southern blot to examine gene expression of the cytokines interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, IL-4, IL-5, and interferon (IFN)-gamma and compared the results with the gene expressions of these cytokines in normal nasal mucosa. Nasal polyp tissues were obtained from 14 patients undergoing polypectomy for nasal obstruction. Among them, 4 patients suffered from associated perennial allergic rhinitis. The mRNAs of IL-4 and IL-5 (Th2 cytokines) as well as IFN-gamma (Th1 cytokine) were expressed in all of the nasal polyps obtained from the 14 patients, irrespective of the presence or absence of allergy, while 2, 0, and 4 of 6 normal turbinate mucosae expressed IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-gamma mRNAs, respectively. The mRNAs of IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, and TGF-beta were expressed in 6, 1, 2, and 3 of 6 normal turbinate mucosae, respectively, while the mRNAs of these cytokines were expressed in all of the 14 polyp tissues except IL-6 mRNA, which was expressed in 13 nasal polyp tissues. There were no differences in the mean density ratios of each cytokine band on Southern blot between polyp tissues with allergy and those without allergy. These results suggest that many cytokines are produced in nasal polyps, that they may play important roles in the pathogenesis of nasal polyps, and that allergy per se may not play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of nasal polyps.

Effects of IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta on proliferation of human nasal epithelial cells in vitro

Previous reports suggest that cytokines may be involved in proliferation of the epithelium. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of cytokines, IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta on proliferation of human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) in vitro. Primary cells were cultured from HNECs on collagen gel matrix. Subcultured HNECs were incubated in a medium with recombinant human (rh) cytokines, rhIL-1 beta, rhTNF-alpha, and rhTGF-beta at different concentrations of 0.01 ng/mL, 0.1 ng/mL, 1 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, and 100 ng/mL. After 2-day incubation with these cytokines, daily cell proliferation was measured by MTT assay for 6 days. While rhIL-1 beta inhibited proliferation of HNECs in concentration-dependent and time-dependent manners, rhTNF-a stimulated HNEC growth at concentrations ranging from 0.01 ng/mL to 10 ng/mL in concentration-dependent and time-dependent manner. In contrast, rhTGF-b inhibited HNEC growth irrespective of concentration and incubation time. This study suggests that IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta may have an important role in the repair of the nasal mucosa by regulating proliferation of the nasal epithelium.

Effects of phenylephrine on ciliary beat in human nasal respiratory epithelium: quantitative measurement by video-computerized analysis

The in vitro effects of phenylephrine solution on ciliary beat frequency (CBF) in terms of different concentrations and exposure times were investigated using a video-computerized analysis technique. Nasal epithelial cells were taken from inferior turbinate of 10 volunteers by scraping the nasal mucosa with a cytology brush. CBF was measured in five different concentrations including 0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2.5%. Each specimen was incubated in different solution for 6 days and CBF was measured at 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, and 6 days. CBF decreased significantly after 12-hour incubation in 0.125% phenylephrine solution and after 8-hour incubation in 0.25% phenylephrine solution, both clinically used concentrations. There were significant decreases in CBF after incubation in 0.5% phenylephrine for 2 hours, in 1% for 1 hour, and in 2.5% for 30 minutes (P < 0.05, repeated measure analysis of variance [ANOVA]). CBF of the nasal respiratory ciliated cells significantly decreased with increasing concentrations of phenylephrine solution and with increasing incubation times at the same concentration (P < 0.05, repeated measure ANOVA). The results of this study suggest that phenylephrine may inhibit ciliary beat in vitro by its pharmacological effect at lower concentrations than clinically used ones.

Correlation between nasal obstruction symptoms and objective parameters of acoustic rhinometry and rhinomanometry

Acoustic rhinometry and rhinomanometry have been used to assess nasal airway patency objectively. We compared nasal obstruction symptoms before and after decongestion with several parameters of these objective tests. The patients assessed their nasal obstruction using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Cross-sectional areas and nasal resistance were measured by acoustic rhinometry and rhinomanometry before and after topical application of 1% phenylephrine solution in 32 patients with nasal obstruction symptoms. There was no significant correlation between the difference in the VAS and the difference in nasal resistance. There was also no significant correlation between the difference in the VAS and minimal cross-sectional area and cross-sectional areas at 3.3 cm (CA3.3), CA4.0 and CA6.4 from the nosepiece both in the wide and narrow sides and in both nasal cavities before and after nasal decongestion. It is concluded that rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry may have no diagnostic value in estimating the severity of nasal obstruction symptoms.

Distribution mapping of ciliary beat frequencies of respiratory epithelium cells using image processing

Through their rapid periodic actions, the cilia of the human respiratory tract play an important role in clearing inhaled noxious particles. An automated method is developed, based on an image-processing technique, to measure and analyse objectively and quantitatively, ciliary beat frequency (CBF). Microscopic ciliary images are transformed into digitised grey images through an image grabber inside a PC, and signals are extracted from these, based on an image-subtraction algorithm, and are processed through power spectrum analysis using a fast Fourier transform (FFT). By means of the FFT power spectrum, maximum peak frequencies are detected as CBFs in each partitioned block for the entire digitised field. Using these CBFs, distribution maps are composed in various resolutions, showing visually the spatial distribution of CBFs through cells and in a single cell. To measure CBF variations quantitatively, phenylephrine hydrochloride is used, and the changes in CBF influenced by its concentration and duration are observed.

Correlation between anthropometric measurements of the oropharyngeal area and severity of apnea in patients with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between severity of apnea and anthropometric oropharyngeal measurements in patients with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. A total of 22 patients complaining of snoring and apneic spell during sleep were evaluated by polysomnographic and anthropometric measurements of the oropharyngeal area. The horizontal width of the uvula at the mid-point and the length of the uvula were measured using a T-shaped ruler. The distance between the anterior pillars, posterior pillars and retromolar raphes were also measured. The correlation between these anthropometric measurements and polysomnographic parameters including the respiratory disturbance index (RDI) and the lowest arterial O2 saturation level (lowest SaO2) of the patients were analyzed. Of the anthropometric measurements, the horizontal width of the uvula showed a significant correlation with RDI and lowest SaO2. The results of the present study indicate that patients with broader uvula may have severer sleep apnea and that anthropometric oropharyngeal measurements may give additional information to polysomnographic findings for selecting surgical candidates.

Distribution of nitric oxide in the nasal mucosa of the rat: a histochemical study

We evaluated the distribution of nitric oxide (NO) in the rat nasal mucosa using nicotineamide adenosine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-diaphorase histochemistry. The NADPH-diaphorase positive nerve fibers in the nasal mucosa were observed around blood vessels and submucosal glands and in sphenopalatine ganglions. Strong positive reactions for NADPH-diaphorase were observed in ganglions as compared with the other tissues. In septal and turbinate mucosa, positive reactions for NADPH-diaphorase were mainly seen in the anterior portion, and a few positive reactions were observed in the posterior portion. No positive reactions for NADPH-diaphorase were demonstrated in the sinus mucosa. These results suggest that NO may be related to regulation of blood flow, glandular secretion and neurotransmission, and also that NO may play an important role in the defense mechanism of the upper airway system against external environments.

Prevalence and risk factors for perennial allergic rhinitis in Korea: results of a nationwide survey

A nationwide survey on the prevalence and risk factors for perennial allergic rhinitis in Korea was conducted by means of physical examination by otolaryngologists from July to October 1991. The total number of subjects examined was 9069 and they were drawn from 2899 households in 60 different districts throughout the country. The overall prevalence of perennial allergic rhinitis was 1.14%. For the evaluation of risk factors for perennial allergic rhinitis, a case-control analysis was carried out. The prevalence was influenced by age and urban or rural province. Risk factors such as current urban residence, urban birth place, overcrowding, higher educational attainment, nasal septal deformity and chronic sinusitis with nasal polyposis, indicated an increased risk of perennial allergic rhinitis. Other factors such as smoking and personal factors showed little influence on prevalence.

Increase in expression of IL-4 and IL-5 mRNA in the nasal mucosa of patients with perennial allergic rhinitis during natural allergen exposure

To understand the role of cytokines in allergic nasal disease in humans, we designed this study to investigate the expression of cytokine mRNA in the nasal mucosa of 10 control subjects and 10 patients with perennial allergic rhinitis using a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for IL-4, IL-5 (Th2 cytokines), and IFN-gamma (Th1 cytokine). Both IL-4 and IL-5 mRNAs were expressed in a significantly larger number of patients with allergic rhinitis than in control subjects. When the levels of expression of cytokines and beta-actin mRNA were quantitated, the mean density ratios (cytokine/beta-actin) for IL-4 and IL-5 were higher in patients with allergic rhinitis than in control subjects. In contrast, there were no differences in the number of subjects who showed expression of IFN-gamma mRNA, or in mean density ratios for IFN-gamma between the two groups. This study suggests that both IL-4 and IL-5 mRNAs are expressed almost universally in the nasal mucosa of patients with perennial allergic rhinitis during natural allergen exposure and also that Th2-type cytokines play a crucial role in the development of allergic nasal diseases in vivo.

Inflammatory cytokine expression on nasal polyps developed in allergic and infectious rhinitis

To investigate the expression of cytokine mRNAs in nasal polyps and the role of allergy in the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis, we studied the expression of IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-gamma mRNAs using the RT-PCR and Southern blot. Nasal polyp specimens were obtained from 14 patients with infectious rhinitis and 5 patients with perennial allergic rhinitis. Turbinate mucosa specimens were obtained from 10 patients with allergic rhinitis and from 10 healthy subjects as controls. IL-4, IL-5 and IFN-gamma mRNA were expressed in most specimens of allergic turbinate mucosa. The expression of these cytokines was less frequent in normal healthy turbinate mucosa. The density ratios of IL-4, IL-5 and IFN-gamma to beta-actin were individually determined in both polyp and turbinate tissues. The density ratio for each cytokine was relatively higher in polyp tissues than in healthy turbinate mucosa; however, there was no significant difference in the density ratios determined for polyps associated with allergic rhinitis as compared with polyps associated with infectious rhinitis. These findings indicate that nasal polyposis may differ from allergic rhinitis in the mechanism by which IL-4 and IL-5 are increased. It is concluded that allergy may have an insignificant role in the development of nasal polyps.

Contact laser turbinate surgery for the treatment of idiopathic rhinitis

To evaluate the value of contact laser turbinate surgery using a diode laser in the treatment of idiopathic rhinitis. 53 patients were examined before and after surgery. Six months following surgery, nasal obstruction was significantly improved and a significant decrease in nasal airway resistance was noted on active rhinomanometric measurements (P < 0.05). There were no significant post-operative changes in olfactory acuity using the butanol threshold test and in mucociliary transport using the saccharin transit time. The results of this study suggest that contact laser turbinate surgery may be a valuable alternative form of surgical treatments for patients with idiopathic rhinitis.

Prevalence and risk factors of chronic sinusitis in Korea: results of a nationwide survey

From July through October 1991, a nationwide survey was conducted on the prevalence and risk factors of chronic sinusitis in Korea, using medical and family histories as well as physical examination. In all, 9,069 subjects were examined from 2,899 households residing in 60 different areas throughout the country. The overall prevalence of sinusitis was 1.01%. Casecontrol analysis was performed to determine possible risk factors for sinusitis. No significant differences were found in age groups or sexes. A significant geographic difference was seen in prevalence in the different provinces studied. Economic activity, crowding and allergy were significant risk factors. Other factors such as urban or rural residence, birth place, maternal and paternal age at birth, marriage, smoking history, education, social class, prior trauma, height and weight, and nasal septal deformities did not correlate with the occurrence of sinusitis.

The histology of autologous auricular cartilage implanted into the nasal septum

This study attempts to evaluate the use of auricular cartilage for the treatment of nasal septal defects. A defect was made in the nasal septal cartilage in five rabbits and auricular cartilage grafted into the defect. The cartilage was microscopically examined 4 weeks later. The implanted cartilage was completely covered by ciliated columnar epithelium with minimal scar formation. Proliferation of the implanted cartilage and scattered ossification were observed. Seventeen patients with a nasal septal defect were treated by auricular cartilage implantation from April 1987 to through June 1992. Fifteen patients (88%) had relief of symptoms and showed complete closure of the defect with a follow-up period of 2 years. The results of this study suggest that auricular cartilage may be of value in the repair of a nasal septal defect.

Aspergillus sinusitis: clinical aspects and treatment outcomes

Seventy-two cases of Aspergillus sinusitis were analyzed during a period of 14 years from January 1980 through October 1993. There were 60 cases of primary type and 12 cases of secondary type. The maxillary and ethmoid sinuses were most commonly affected in both primary and secondary types. The sphenoid sinus was commonly involved in secondary type. Fourteen (23%) cases of primary type and 4 (33%) cases of secondary type demonstrated sinus wall destruction on computed tomography or magnetic resonance images. Seventy percent of primary type and all cases of secondary type showed focal or diffuse areas of increased attenuation in the soft tissue mass on computed tomography scans. Sixteen cases assessed by magnetic resonance imaging showed decreased signal intensities on T1-weighted images and markedly reduced signal intensities on T2-weighted images. Fifty-nine (98%) of 60 cases of primary type were noninvasive, and 1 was invasive. In secondary type, 10 (83%) of 12 patients had noninvasive disease. The most common coexisting disease in secondary aspergillosis was diabetes mellitus. Thickened mucosa with necrotic brownish green material, which was the most common finding in both types, was found in 33 patients with primary type and in 5 with secondary type. Surgery was performed in most cases, among which 4 patients received chemotherapy after surgery with amphotericin B with or without flucytosine. All patients were cured without recurrence during a mean follow-up period of 13 months.

Paranasal sinusitis after long-term use of topical nasal decongestants

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of paranasal sinusitis and the histologic changes in the sinus mucosa after long-term administration of topical nasal decongestants, phenylephrine and oxymetazoline. Experimental animals were divided into 3 groups for topical administration for 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Purulent maxillary sinusitis developed in 4 of 10 two-week phenylephrine group, 6 of 10 four-week phenylephrine group, 1 of 10 two-week oxymetazoline group and 3 of 10 four-week oxymetazoline group. Administration of phenylephrine and oxymetazoline for more than 2 weeks caused histologic changes in the maxillary mucosa of the rabbits. Light microscopy showed ciliary loss, epithelial ulceration, inflammatory cell infiltration and edema. The histologic changes were more pronounced with increasing duration of administration of the decongestants. Ciliary loss was more prominent in the 4-week phenylephrine group than in the oxymetazoline group. Dilatation of mitochondria and vacuolization in cytoplasm were prominent in the 4-week groups with both phenylephrine and oxymetazoline. The results of this study suggest that the administration of decongestants may cause ciliary loss with subsequent sinusitis.

Nontraumatic prolapse of the orbital contents into the ethmoid sinus: evaluation with screening sinus CT

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the incidence and CT features of nontraumatic prolapse of the orbital content into the ethmoid sinus, which may be a cause of orbital complication of ethmoidectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CT of 1,024 consecutive patients with subjective sinonasal symptoms who underwent screening sinus CT were reviewed and analyzed. The 573 men and 451 women were between the ages of 5 and 79 years old. The patients with a history of sinus surgery of facial trauma were excluded from this study. The incidence and CT features of dehiscence and/or bowing of the lamina papyracea with prolapse of the orbital content in each age group and differences between the age groups were analyzed.

RESULTS

Ethmoidal prolapse of the orbital content was found in 67 patients (6.5%). There was a tendency of increasing incidence with increasing age. The incidence in the juvenile age group was significantly low (1.9%) as compared with that of adult. Four patients (0.4%) had bilateral lesions. Twenty-nine lesions showed prolapse of moderate to severe degree, and deformity of the medial rectus muscle on coronal CT image was associated in 21 lesions. Inflammatory change of adjacent ethmoid sinus was indicated in 19 lesions, and there was no statistical difference in incidence from that of the opposite side.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of nontraumatic prolapse of the orbital content is far beyond general expectations, and detailed structural information with CT for this anatomic alteration may be important before endoscopic sinus surgery to avoid possible complication. The higher incidence in adult may suggest age-related acquired etiologic factors besides congenital dehiscence or weakness of the lamina papyracea.

Distribution of eosinophil granule proteins in nasal mucosa of atopic patients with nasal polyposis

Nasal polyposis is characterized by heavy eosinophilic infiltration into nasal polyp tissue. Nasal polyps have a predilection for the anteroinferior aspect of the middle turbinate and middle meatal area. To elucidate the pathogenesis of nasal polyps, the authors investigated the distribution of eosinophil infiltrating into nasal polyp tissue, especially at its pedicle, in comparison with the apparently normal nasal mucosa of the middle and inferior turbinates of the same patients. Tissue samples were taken from 12 allergic rhinitis patients with nasal polyps during endoscopic sinus surgery. Three kinds of monoclonal antibodies, EG1, EG2 and BMK-13, were used for immunohistochemical staining. The average number per high-power field of EG1+ cells was 6.33 at the pedicle of polyps and 4.68 and 4.36 at the middle and inferior turbinates, respectively; for EG2+ cells, it was 6.16 at the polyp pedicle and 2.06 and 2.47 at the middle and inferior turbinates, and for BMK-13+ cells, 4.20 at the polyp pedicle and 5.17 and 4.81 at the middle and inferior turbinates. There were no significant differences in the distribution of EG1+ and BMK-13+ cells, but a relatively larger number of activated eosinophils (EG2+ cells) was noted at the pedicle of polyps compared with the other sites (p < 0.025). In addition, the EG2+ cell/EG1+ cell ratio was significantly higher at the pedicle of polyps compared with the other sites (p < 0.01). The results of this study suggest that the activation of eosinophils is significant in the pathogenesis of nasal polyps in atopic patients rather than the number of eosinophils.

Idiopathic orbital pseudotumours in adults

We treated 24 cases of orbital pseudotumour from January 1981 through January 1993. The clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes were analyzed retrospectively by reviewing the medical records, radiological studies, and histological examination. All patients presented with symptoms related to the eye (proptosis, lid swelling, limited ocular motion and/or pain, chemosis, and visual disturbance), while only five patients had symptoms pertaining to the ear, nose, and throat besides the ophthalmological symptoms. Plain X-ray findings were not contributory to the diagnosis. Computed tomograms (CT) showed non-specific findings such as hypertrophy of the extra-ocular muscles and well-defined or poorly defined mass. Pathological findings were non-specific, only to reveal benign lymphoid hyperplasia and inflammatory cell infiltration with necrotizing vasculitis. Twenty-four patients were treated with high-dose steroid therapy which resulted in a significant improvement in 10 patients (42%).