Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Absorption of Nasal and Bronchial Fluids: Precision Sampling of the Human Respiratory Mucosa and Laboratory Processing of Samples
Published on: January 21, 2018
A clinical and pathologic study of chronic sinusitis: the role of the eosinophil
S L Harlin1, D G Ansel, S R Lane
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hahnemann University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.
Abstract:
Evidence exists that the eosinophil plays an important role in mediating injury to bronchial epithelium in chronic asthma. Here, the role of the eosinophil in chronic inflammatory disease of the paranasal sinuses was studied with tissue from patients who underwent surgery for chronic sinusitis. Paranasal tissue from patients with chronic asthma and/or allergic rhinitis was extensively infiltrated with eosinophils. Immunofluorescent studies demonstrated a striking association between the presence of extracellular deposition of major basic protein and damage to sinus mucosa. The histopathology of paranasal respiratory epithelium appeared similar to that described in bronchial asthma. These findings suggest that the eosinophil acts as an effector cell in chronic inflammatory disease of paranasal respiratory epithelium. Thus, sinus disease in patients with asthma may be due to the same mechanisms that cause damage to bronchial epithelium.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Asthma I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features

