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Human respiratory nasal mucosa in progressive systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). An electron microscopic study
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|June 1, 1980
Summary
Systemic scleroderma significantly alters nasal respiratory mucosa, causing cilia loss and glandular changes. These findings suggest a link between immune system reactivity and the disease's nasal manifestations.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Immunology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Systemic scleroderma is an autoimmune disease affecting connective tissues.
- Nasal manifestations of systemic scleroderma are not well-characterized.
- Understanding mucosal changes is crucial for managing patient symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in the respiratory nasal mucosa of patients with systemic scleroderma.
- To identify specific morphological alterations in the nasal epithelium, glands, and vasculature.
Main Methods:
- Histopathological examination of nasal mucosal biopsies from 5 patients with systemic scleroderma.
- Light and electron microscopy to analyze cellular and tissue structures.
Main Results:
- Complete absence of cilia in the respiratory nasal epithelium.
- Morphological changes in sero-mucinous glands, with increased activity of serous cells and absence of mucous elements.
- Severe vascular changes in capillaries and small arterioles.
- Presence of electron-dense deposits within the nasal mucosa.
Conclusions:
- Systemic scleroderma induces significant ultrastructural damage to the respiratory nasal mucosa.
- The observed changes suggest a complex interplay of immune response and vascular compromise.
- Individual immune system reactivity may influence the specific manifestations of the disease.
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