Nasal cytology in allergic processes and other syndromes caused by hyperreactivity

The spontaneous nasal secretions from about 128 patients with the symptomatic triad of rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal obstruction were studied. The cytological examination consisted of a morphological evaluation and a semiquantitative evaluation. Noncellular and nonliving presences in the smears have been considered, including mucus, Charcot-Layden crystals, and pollen grains, as well as fungi and bacilli. We found a net increase in eosinophils, goblet cells, and cellular debris in secretions of atopic patients. Pollen grains and vegetative fragments were present in the nasal smears of pollinosis. The presence of fungi was observed in five cases of allergic rhinopathy. The exfoliative cytology represents a valuable means for the differential diagnosis of rhinitis. In particular, the presence of noncellular elements has value regarding rhinocytology.