Evaluation of nasal microplastic densities in patients with acute and chronic rhinitis.

Abstract

Background: Increasing plastic consumption has made microplastics a persistent environmental pollutant present in the atmosphere and other ecosystems. These particles can enter biological tissues via ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation and potentially cause rhinitis and other respiratory diseases through inflammatory and cytotoxic effects.

Objectives: This study evaluated the association between nasal inhalation of microplastics, a contributor to air pollution, and rhinitis symptoms, as well as their role in the etiology of acute and chronic rhinitis.

Materials and methods: Sixty patients were equally divided into two groups: acute rhinitis (30 patients) and chronic rhinitis (30 patients). Demographic data, including age and gender, and total nasal symptom scores were recorded. Nasal lavage samples were collected and the number of microplastics in these samples was analyzed. Groups were compared based on microplastic counts.

Results: The acute rhinitis group had significantly higher microplastic levels than the chronic rhinitis group. Microplastics were detected in at least one sample from each participant, regardless of gender, age, or symptom score.

Conclusions and significance: The higher concentration of microplastics in acute rhinitis highlights their potential role in exacerbations and underscores the need for preventive strategies and further research on their long-term health effects.