Toxicity of Nasal Respiratory Mucosa in Humans

Abstract

As the first portal of entry to the respiratory tract, the nasal cavity and associated sinuses are exposed to a significant range of inhaled xenobiotics. The available methodology to qualify and quantify physiological damage in populations at risk from potentially toxic agents is examined, including endoscopy, assessment of mucociliary function, assessment of nasal airway, olfaction, and relevant hematology. Inhaled xenobiotics may have an etiological role in allergy, infection, and the development of neoplasia. An overview of established occupational risks is examined with specific reference to malignant melanoma, and the results of recent clinical studies regarding association between this rare tumor and formaldehyde are presented.