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Preliminary Study of Microplastic in Allergic Rhinitis
Junfang Xue1, Xuesheng Li1, Xiaoxu Lv2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing, China.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|August 31, 2025
Summary
Microplastic exposure is linked to allergic rhinitis (AR). Patients with AR had higher microplastic concentrations in their nasal cavities compared to healthy individuals, suggesting a potential environmental health concern.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Microplastics are ubiquitous environmental contaminants found in human tissues.
- Emerging evidence suggests microplastics may contribute to disease development.
- The impact of microplastics on respiratory conditions like allergic rhinitis is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between microplastic exposure and allergic rhinitis (AR).
- To quantify microplastic levels in the nasal cavities of AR patients and controls.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 33 AR patients and 22 healthy controls.
- Participants underwent nasal irrigation, with solutions analyzed for microplastic content.
- Nasal symptom severity was assessed using the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS).
Main Results:
- No significant differences in age or gender between groups.
- AR patients reported significantly higher TNSS scores (P < .001).
- Microplastic density was significantly elevated in the nasal cavities of AR patients compared to controls (P = .003).
Conclusions:
- Nasal microplastic concentration is significantly higher in individuals with allergic rhinitis.
- This finding suggests a potential role for microplastics in the pathogenesis of AR.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking microplastics and allergic diseases.
