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The relationship between the nasal cycle and mucociliary clearance
M C Littlejohn1, C M Stiernberg, J A Hokanson
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston.
The Laryngoscope
|February 11, 1992
Summary
The nasal cycle, characterized by alternating congestion and decongestion, shows faster nasal mucociliary clearance during the congested phase. However, this difference is likely not clinically significant compared to disease states.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- The nasal cycle involves alternating congestion and decongestion of nasal mucosa, impacting nasal airflow and function.
- Nasal mucociliary clearance is a critical defense mechanism of the respiratory tract.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in nasal mucociliary clearance during the congested and decongested phases of the nasal cycle.
- To assess the clinical significance of these differences.
Main Methods:
- Anterior rhinomanometry was used to measure nasal airway resistance over 6 hours.
- Nasal mucociliary clearance was assessed using the saccharin method during both congested and decongested phases.
- The study included 10 subjects exhibiting the nasal cycle.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant difference (P < .09) was observed in nasal mucociliary clearance between the two phases.
- The congested phase demonstrated a more rapid mucociliary clearance compared to the decongested phase.
- The observed difference in transport times was deemed not clinically significant when compared to disease states.
Conclusions:
- Nasal mucociliary clearance is influenced by the nasal cycle, being faster during congestion.
- The physiological changes in clearance during the nasal cycle are unlikely to be clinically relevant for most conditions.