Nasal function in self-reported chemically intolerant individuals.
Nasal function has not yet been investigated under controlled exposures in individuals with self-reported Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (sMCS). Therefore, anterior rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry were applied in 12 individuals with sMCS, and 12 age-matched controls. The sMCS individuals and controls were selected on the basis of a standardized questionnaire. Controlled 4-hr exposures to ethylbenzene and 2-butanone were performed during 4 sessions. Exposures were close to the current German threshold limit values, and they approximated odor thresholds. Subjects with sMCS had a significant decrease in the flow value in anterior rhinomanometry, independent of substance and doses, compared with controls. This result suggests somatic reactions to the exposure. The result must be confirmed in additional studies, and pathophysiological examinations must be performed. For these investigations, anterior rhinomanometry was usable, but acoustic rhinometry can be recommended only after sufficient standardization has occurred. Furthermore, biochemical parameters of nasal mucosa must be considered.
Wiesmüller
Gerhard Andreas
GA
Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Rhenish-Westphalian Technological University, Aachen, Germany.
Van Thriel
Christoph
C
Steup
Achim
A
Bachert
Claus
C
Clinic
E N T
EN
Blaszkewicz
Meinolf
M
Golka
Klaus
K
Kiesswetter
Ernst
E
Seeber
Andreas
A
D000281:Administration, Intranasal; D000328:Adult; D001555:Benzene Derivatives / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002074:Butanones / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018777:Multiple Chemical Sensitivity / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D009666:Nose / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D025363:Rhinomanometry / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D001555:Benzene Derivatives; D002074:Butanones; C005222:methylethyl ketone; C004912:ethylbenzene