[Correlation between nasal mucosal temperature change and nasal airflow perception].

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Sensory Science
• Biophysics

Background:

• The precise mechanisms underlying nasal airflow perception are not fully understood.
• Current theories implicate the transient receptor potential melastatin subtype 8 (TRPM8) in sensing nasal patency.
• Subjective perception of nasal airflow is crucial for respiratory comfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of nasal mucosal temperature changes in the subjective perception of nasal patency.
• To critically evaluate the existing evidence supporting temperature as a primary factor in nasal airflow sensation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing findings from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies.
• Analysis of physical measurements, including nasal cavity temperature probe data.
• Consideration of trigeminal nerve function tests as indirect evidence.

Main Results:

• Computational fluid dynamics simulations indicate a correlation between increased airflow, heat flux, and higher subjective nasal patency scores.
• Physical measurements demonstrate an inverse relationship between nasal mucosal temperature and perceived nasal patency.
• Trigeminal function assessments provide indirect support for sensory mechanisms involved in nasal airflow perception.

Conclusions:

• Nasal mucosal temperature changes appear to be a significant factor in the subjective perception of nasal patency.
• The findings support a model where temperature sensation contributes to the overall sense of nasal airflow.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the complex mechanisms of nasal airflow perception.