Nasal Mucosal Heavy Metal Accumulation, Olfactory Dysfunction, and Histopathological Changes: A Prospective Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Environmental Health
• Toxicology

Background:

• Heavy metals are neurotoxic environmental hazards.
• Exposure may impair olfactory pathways.
• This study investigated heavy metals in nasal tissues of patients with sinonasal conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• Quantify heavy metal concentrations (Cd, As, Pb, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Fe, Hg) in nasal mucosa and secretions.
• Examine associations between heavy metals, olfactory function, nasal airflow, and histopathology.
• Identify specific heavy metals linked to olfactory dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 97 adult patients undergoing nasal surgery.
• Olfactory function assessed using Smell Diskettes Olfaction Test.
• Nasal airflow evaluated via rhinomanometry.
• Heavy metal analysis using ICP-MS and AAS.

Main Results:

• Chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), and lead (Pb) concentrations negatively correlated with olfactory performance.
• Nasal airflow positively associated with olfactory function.
• Fe, Pb, and Cr identified as key predictors of olfactory dysfunction.
• Higher Cr in carcinoma, higher Cd in precancerous lesions.
• Age amplified adverse effects of Fe and Pb.

Conclusions:

• Accumulation of Cr, Fe, and Pb in nasal mucosa is linked to impaired olfaction and histopathological changes.
• Environmental heavy metal exposure may negatively impact olfactory function, particularly in the elderly.