Electron microscopy findings in the nasal mucosa of a patient with stenosis of the nasal vestibule.
The nasal mucosa humidifies, warms and filters inspired air before it passes to the lower respiratory tract. In order to maintain the physiological activity of the respiratory epithelium, a certain amount of airflow is required. This report describes electron microscopy findings in the nasal mucosa of a patient who had decreased airflow through the nose due to stenosis of the nasal vestibule. Electron microscopic examination of the nasal mucosa revealed stratified squamous epithelium composed of markedly degenerated cells. The findings of abnormal mucosal structure highlight another negative consequence of nasal obstruction in addition to abnormal physiological function of the nose. The negative impact of diminished airflow on the nasal mucosa should be considered in any case where the patient has a condition that can lead to partial or total loss of airflow through the nose.
Cagici
Can Alper
CA
Baskent University Adana Teaching and Medical Research Center, ENT Department, Adana, Turkey. ccagici@hotmail.com
Karabay
Gulten
G
Yilmazer
Cuneyt
C
Gencay
Sundus
S
Cakmak
Ozcan
O
D000293:Adolescent; D001284:Atrophy / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology; D003251:Constriction, Pathologic / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008854:Microscopy, Electron / Q000379:methods; D009296:Nasal Cavity / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D009297:Nasal Mucosa / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D009668:Nose Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D014420:Turbinates / Q000473:pathology