Abstract
The enzymatic changes in chronic hypertrophic rhinitis were studied in 14 patients. The cholinesterase content was increased in the subepithelium and stroma, denoting parasympathetic hyperactivity. Acid phosphatase was increased in the epithelium, subepithelium and around the glands, indicating increased shedding and phagocytic activity. Succinic dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase and alpha-esterase were increased in the mucous glands, denoting increase secretory activity, hence increased natural defence mechanism of the nasal mucosa.