Sampling of nasal secretions for flow-cytometric analysis in inflammatory diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses

Abstract

Nasal secretions represent the first line of defense medium, in which the leucocytes probably act as an efficient part of the defense mechanism along with the mucociliary transport system and the biochemical properties of the mucus. The aim of this review article is to introduce all techniques for nasal secretion sampling used up to now. We described aspiration, absorption, and dilution techniques for nasal fluid collection. We, also, noted all limitations of these techniques. We especially described absorption technique with its advantages and limitations. Furthermore, we described a technique for nasal fluid samples preparation and for inflammatory mediator measurement - flow cytometry bead-based multiple analyte detection. Nasal secretion content reflects the inflammatory status of the nasal/paranasal sinuses mucosa and the evolution of mucosal disease.