Alteration of Histopathology in Recurrent Nasal Polyps

The objective of this study was to analyze the histopathologic changes in recurrent nasal polyps (NPs) in terms of tissue inflammatory cells infiltration and mucosal remodeling.

Thirty-five patients with primary NPs requiring a revision surgery during follow-up and a matched control group of 35 primary NP patients without recurrence were retrospectively enrolled. Histopathologic examination was performed of tissue inflammatory cells, subepithelial edema, epithelial cell hyperplasia, basement membrane thickness, and fibrosis.

The mean eosinophil and neutrophil counts, proportions of eosinophil and neutrophil, as well as total inflammatory cell count were significantly higher in the recurrent group than those in the controls. Higher subepithelial edema was seen in the recurrent group. Within the recurrent group, the mean tissue eosinophil count and relative eosinophilia reduced from the first operation to revision surgery, whereas neutrophil count and proportion, and total inflammatory cell counts remained unchanged. Subepithelial edema and epithelial cell hyperplasia were significantly reduced after the first surgical procedure.

NP recurrence is associated with higher inflammatory grade (especially in eosinophilia and neutrophilia). Surgical and corticoid treatments may have an impact on mucosal histopathologic changes but need further certification.