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Basic fibroblast growth factor in nasal polyps immunohistochemical and quantitative findings
T Norlander1, A Westermark, G van Setten
1Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. iipo@ent.ks.se
Rhinology
|August 7, 2001
Summary
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is elevated in nasal polyps, particularly in inflamed tissue. This finding suggests bFGF plays a significant role in nasal polyp formation.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a mitogenic mediator found in damaged tissues.
- bFGF has been implicated in tissue repair, such as gastro-duodenal ulcer healing.
- Its role in nasal polyposis remains to be fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and localize basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in nasal polyps.
- To compare bFGF levels in nasal polyps versus healthy inferior turbinate mucosa.
- To investigate the correlation between bFGF levels and the degree of inflammation in nasal polyps.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 12 nasal polyp tissue samples and matched inferior turbinate mucosa.
- Quantification of bFGF using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
- Localization of bFGF using immunohistochemistry.
Main Results:
- Nasal polyp tissue exhibited significantly higher bFGF concentrations compared to turbinate mucosa.
- Elevated bFGF levels were observed in patients with a high degree of inflammation.
- Immunohistochemistry revealed abundant bFGF in glandular acini, epithelium, inflammatory cells, and vessel walls.
Conclusions:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is significantly upregulated in nasal polyps.
- bFGF's presence in inflammatory cells and glandular structures suggests a role in polyp pathogenesis.
- These findings propose that bFGF significantly contributes to the development of nasal polyps.