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Neurogenic mechanisms in rhinosinusitis
1Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Georgetown University Medical Center, GL-020 Gorman Building, 3800 Reservoir Road, Washington, DC 20007-2197, USA. baraniuj@gunet.georgetown.edu
Current Allergy and Asthma Reports
|March 15, 2002
Summary
Nasal nerve stimulation triggers protective responses like mucus secretion and sneezing. Dysfunctional reflexes and sympathetic tone loss may cause rhinitis and rhinopathy.
Area of Science:
- Rhinology
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- Nasal sensory nerve stimulation causes pain and congestion.
- Substance P release stimulates glandular secretion for mucosal defense.
- Parasympathetic reflexes and sympathetic tone regulate nasal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanisms of nasal sensory nerve stimulation.
- To understand the role of parasympathetic and sympathetic reflexes in nasal physiology.
- To explore the contribution of these pathways to rhinitis and rhinopathy.
Main Methods:
- Review of physiological mechanisms of nasal response.
- Analysis of neurochemical mediators like substance P.
- Examination of receptor pathways (muscarinic M3).
Main Results:
- Nasal stimulation activates nociceptive nerves, releasing substance P and initiating glandular secretion.
- Parasympathetic reflexes, mediated by M3 receptors, enhance secretion.
- Sympathetic vasoconstriction maintains nasal patency, while loss of tone may cause chronic issues.
Conclusions:
- Nasal sensory nerves and associated reflexes are crucial for airway protection.
- Dysfunction in these pathways is implicated in allergic, infectious, and nonallergic rhinitides.
- Sympathetic tone is vital for nasal patency, and its loss may underlie chronic rhinopathies.
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