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Increased capsaicin cough sensitivity in patients with multiple chemical sensitivity
Ewa Ternesten-Hasséus1, Mats Bende, Eva Millqvist
1Asthma and Allergy Research Group, Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Sahlgrenska Academy, Göteborg University, Sweden.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|November 27, 2002
Summary
Patients with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) exhibit heightened airway sensory reactivity. This study suggests neurogenic factors play a role in MCS symptoms, indicated by increased coughing and reactions to capsaicin.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Medicine
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) presents with diverse symptoms across multiple organ systems, lacking definitive diagnostic markers.
- Previous research has not established consistent physical findings or laboratory abnormalities for MCS-associated symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate airway sensory hyperreactivity in patients diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS).
- To explore the potential role of neurogenic mechanisms in the pathophysiology of MCS.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized provocation study involving 12 patients meeting Cullen's criteria for MCS and a control group.
- Inhaled capsaicin at increasing concentrations was administered to assess airway responses, including cough, compared to saline placebo.
Main Results:
- Patients with MCS demonstrated significantly increased coughing at multiple capsaicin concentrations compared to healthy controls.
- Capsaicin provocation elicited a greater number of symptoms in MCS patients, indicating heightened airway sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Airway sensory reactivity is demonstrably increased in individuals with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS).
- These findings support the hypothesis that neurogenic factors are significant contributors to the symptomology of MCS.