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Nasal Bitter Taste Testing for Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Pilot Proof-of-Concept Study
Shankar Ramasundram1, Ramiza Ramza Ramli2, Norasnieda Md Shukri2
1KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
Summary
Nasal bitter taste testing, using phenylthiocarbamide (PTC), shows promise as a simple screening tool for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This method effectively differentiates between CRS patients and healthy individuals, offering a new diagnostic approach.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Taste receptor research
- Immunology
Background:
- Bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) in sinonasal mucosa are implicated in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) severity.
- Understanding T2R function may reveal therapeutic targets for CRS management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore nasal bitter taste testing as a screening tool for CRS.
- To develop a method for detecting T2R sensitivity in the nose.
- To establish a suitable ligand titration for future studies.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 84 adults (42 CRS, 42 controls).
- Evaluated nasal glucose and phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) taste sensitivity.
- Utilized colorimetric and statistical analyses for PTC thresholds and glucose levels.
Main Results:
- A 0.13% PTC dilution was optimal for intranasal testing.
- Significant association found between nasal bitter taste testing and CRS status (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Nasal bitter taste testing is a simple, inexpensive CRS screening method.
- The study provides a basis for further research on T2R targeting in CRS diagnostics and management.
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