Various methods for testing nasal responses in vivo: a critical review

Mucosal responses in the airway can ideally be studied in the nose. It is a readily accessible organ and can be provoked repeatedly. Likewise, mucosal responses to certain provocations can be easily monitored. Different methods for the provocation and measurement of nasal responses have been used in recent years. Each technique has its own advantage and restrictions. In order to make a correct interpretation of the results achieved, however, it is important that the investigator is familiar and comfortable with the methods used. For clinical purposes, techniques for qualitative measurements may be appropriate, but for experimental research, quantitative measurements with high reproducibility are essential. The present paper critically discusses current techniques for provocation and assessment of nasal responses, which may improve both the techniques used and the understanding of nasal physiology.