[Histopathologic study of the ethmoid bone in chronic sinusitis]

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Pathology
• Bone Biology

Background:

• Chronic sinusitis (CRS) is a prevalent condition with complex pathophysiology.
• The role of ethmoid bone pathology in CRS pathogenesis requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To histopathologically examine the ethmoid bone in patients with chronic sinusitis.
• To determine the contribution of bone pathology to the development of CRS.

Main Methods:

• Collected ethmoid sinus mucosa and bone specimens from 40 CRS patients and 16 controls.
• Utilized HE, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and Van Gieson staining.
• Assessed scores for nasal mucosa inflammation, mucoperiosteum/bone pathology, and bone remodeling activity.

Main Results:

• CRS patients exhibited significantly higher scores for mucosal inflammation, bone pathology, and bone remodeling compared to controls.
• No significant correlation was found between mucosal inflammation and bone pathology or remodeling activity in CRS patients.
• Histological analysis revealed marked fibrosis, woven bone structure, and changes akin to chronic osteomyelitis in the ethmoid bone of CRS patients.

Conclusions:

• The ethmoid bone in CRS patients displays significant pathological alterations, including fibrosis and active remodeling.
• These bone changes, resembling chronic osteomyelitis, suggest a critical role in the pathogenesis of chronic sinusitis.
• Further research into ethmoid bone pathology may offer new therapeutic targets for CRS.