The Contribution of Fillers Used in the Correction of Malar Depression to Visual Quality and Quality of Life.

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the contributions of the filler procedure performed in the malar region to the patient's appearance as visual quality and quality of life. Methods: A total of 72 patients who underwent a malar filler procedure between March 2022 and March 2023 were included in the study. Each patient received a 2 cc injection of hyaluronic acid filler, with 1 cc administered on the right and 1 cc on the left. Photos before the malar filler procedure and photos taken in the first month after the procedure for individuals included in the study were independently evaluated by 2 physicians. Change criteria were rated on a scale of 1 to 5 as follows: (1) no change, (2) slight change, (3) moderate change, (4) significant change, and (5) very significant change. The satisfaction of the patients related to the malar filler procedure was evaluated by a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scale of 1 to 10 (0 showing no satisfaction, 10 showing maximum satisfaction). Results: Physicians evaluated the visual appearance of the patients as a "very significant change" in all patients (100%). Of the 72 patients, 66 (91.6%) expressed satisfaction with the procedure, while 6 (8.4%) found the treatment insufficient and requested further interventions. Conclusion: Hyaluronic acid fillers applied to the malar region caused patient satisfaction in 91.6%. However, a few patients requested further interventions. Patients' requests for unnecessary operations should be noted and treated with caution since they may lead doctors in the wrong direction.

Comparison of 1 Year Nasal Tip Projection Results of Triple Cartilage Combining Suture (Flexible Tongue-in-Groove) and Classical Tongue-in-Groove Techniques.

Objectives: In the present study, we compared patient satisfaction with classical tongue-in-groove (TIG) technique and triple cartilage combining suture (TCCS; flexible tongue-in-groove) techniques applied to the nasal tip in rhinoplasty. Methods: In this retrospective study, 80 patients who underwent rhinoplasty operations with TIG or TCCS techniques applied to the tip region were included. There were 40 patients in both groups. All patients in groups 1 and 2 were evaluated by the criteria written below at preoperative, postoperative first month, and postoperative first year: (1) Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation Questionnaire (ROE), (2) tip projection (cm), (3) nasal dorsum length (cm), (4) tip projection ratio (Goode), (5) nasofrontal angle, and (6) nasolabial angle. Results: The patients were followed up at 84.32 ± 19.38 months in the TIG group and 87.47 ± 18.01 months in the TCCS group. Our results showed that preoperative, postoperative first-month, and first-year tip projection (P = .013, P = .022, and P = .020, respectively), and nasal dorsum length values (P = .009, P = .020, and P = .020, respectively) of the TCCS group were significantly lower than those in the TIG group. There was a positive correlation between the postoperative first month and postoperative first year ROE scores. Lower preoperative tip projection ratio (Goode) values and higher nasolabial angle values were related to higher ROE scores showing patient satisfaction. Conclusion: For the patient satisfaction after tip rhinoplasty, lower projection ratio (Goode) and higher nasolabial angle values were related to ROE scores. Although there are no significant results, lower tip projection results in the TCCS group may be related to more patient satisfaction due to natural appearance.

Investigation of the Effects of Allicin on the Nasal Mucosa.

Objectives: We investigated the effects of allicin on nasal mucosa via an experimental study. Methods: In the study, 16 male New Zealand Albino (2.5-4.5 kg) rabbits were used. The right nasal passages of the 8 rabbits were included in the control group (Group 1, n = 8), and the right nasal passages of the 8 different rabbits were included in the study group (Group 2, n = 8). In the study group (Group 2), a Merocel tampon soaked in Allicin (Alli Tech; Dulwich Health) (0.5 mg/kg). In the control group (Group 1), a Merocel tampon soaked in serum physiologic was placed in the right nasal passage for 3 days (first to third days of the study). On the fourth day, nasal mucosa was excised and histopathological examinations were performed. Results: Our results showed that there were no significant differences in terms of bleeding, congestion, inflammation, calcification, and seromucous gland density between the study and control groups (P > .05). In light microscopic evaluation, moderate density of lymphocytic cells beneath the surface epithelium and, further down, seromucous gland structures, dense seromucous glands, and occasional ductal structures were observed in the study group. Congested vascular structures beneath the respiratory epithelium and adjacent to a thick-walled vascular structure, coarse calcification is observed in the control group. Conclusion: It has been demonstrated that the Allicin-soaked Merocel pack does not have adverse effects on rabbit nasal mucosa, and it does not lead to mucosal bleeding, congestion, inflammation, and calcification, and changes in the seromucous gland density. Considering the antibacterial and antiviral effects of allicin, it is appropriate to plan research in humans to evaluate its use in nasal packs applied during epistaxis, septoplasty, rhinoplasty, and endoscopic sinus surgery.

Experimental Models to Study Immune Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, age-related, progressive multisystem disease associated with neuroinflammation and immune dysfunction. This review discusses the methodological approaches used to study the changes in central and peripheral immunity in PD, the advantages and limitations of the techniques, and their applicability to humans. Although a single animal model cannot replicate all pathological features of the human disease, neuroinflammation is present in most animal models of PD and plays a critical role in understanding the involvement of the immune system (IS) in the pathogenesis of PD. The IS and its interactions with different cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) play an important role in the pathogenesis of PD. Even though culture models do not fully reflect the complexity of disease progression, they are limited in their ability to mimic long-term effects and need validation through in vivo studies. They are an indispensable tool for understanding the interplay between the IS and the pathogenesis of this disease. Understanding the immune-mediated mechanisms may lead to potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of PD. We believe that the development of methodological guidelines for experiments with animal models and PD patients is crucial to ensure the validity and consistency of the results.

Radiological Evaluation of the Effect of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux on the Thickness of Inferior Turbinate, Maxillary Sinus Mucosa and Nasal Septal Body.

Background: We investigated the relationship between Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) and maxillary sinus mucosal thickness (MSMT), inferior turbinate mucosal thickness (ITMT), inferior turbinate width (ITW) and nasal septal body thickness (NSBT), which can be signs of chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis. Methods: The study, which included 87 patients, was designed as two groups. While 42 of the patients were included in the Laryngopharyngeal Reflux group, 45 were included in the control group. Age and gender information of the patients were noted. MSMT, ITMT, ITW and NSBT values were measured in patients who had Paranasal Sinus Computed Tomography. MSMT, ITMT and ITW were measured as right and left. Both groups were evaluated in terms of these values. Results: Right ITMT, bilateral ITW and MSMT values were found to be significantly higher in the LPR group than in the control group (p < 0.05). MSMT values were higher in males (p < 0.05). The left-ITT and NSBT values were not significantly different between the LPR group and the control group, but both values were higher in the LPR group than in the control group (p > 0.05). In the LPR group, there were positive correlations between ITMT and ITW values of the right side; and left side separately (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It has been shown that Laryngopharyngeal Reflux increases maxillary sinus mucosal thickness, inferior turbinate thickness and width, and nasal septal body thickness, which can be signs of chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis. The negative effects of LPR on nasal and paranasal mucosa and structures were demonstrated in this study.

Effects of Anatolian Propolis and Hypertonic Saline Combination Nasal Spray on Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms: A Prospective, Multicenter Study.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate how Rhinapi nasal spray affects symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Methods: In this prospective, multicenter, observational study, 10,000 patients (comprising 5028 males and 4972 females) exhibiting symptoms of allergic rhinitis (namely, nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal itching, and nasal obstruction) from different centers in different regions of Turkey were enrolled in the study between March 2022 and March 2023. All the patients wanted to participate in the study and were administered Rhinapi one puff to each nostril three times a day, for a period of 3 weeks. Total symptom scores, quality of life (QoL) scores, and otolaryngological examination scores were evaluated before and 3 weeks after treatment. Results: The scores for discharge from the nose, sneezing, nasal pruritus, and blockage of the nose all indicated improvement when compared to pre-medication and post-medication. This difference achieved statistical significance (P < .001). The mean total symptom score fell following treatment (P < .001): whilst the score was 11.09 ± 3.41 before administering Rhinapi; after administration, the average score was 6.23 ± 2.41. The mean QoL scores also altered after medication (P < .001), improving from a mean value of 6.44 ± 1.55 to a mean of 7.31 ± 1.24. Significant improvement was also noted in the scores for conchal color and degree of edema after the treatment had been administered (P < .001). Conclusion: The study demonstrates that Rhinapi nasal spray decreases total symptom scores, and results in improved QoL and otolaryngological examination scores. Propolis spray may be recommended for patients with allergic rhinitis alongside other treatments.

Is there a relationship between sphenoid sinus pneumatization and carotid canal-intersinus septa connection?

OBJECTIVES: We investigated the relationship between sphenoid sinus (SS) pneumatization types, carotid canal types and carotid canal-intersinus septa connection. METHODS: The paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNSCT) images of 274 patients (141 males and 133 females) were evaluated retrospectively. SS pneumatization, SS intersinus septation, SS intersinus septa deviation, carotid canal classification, carotid canal dehiscence, carotid canal-intersinus septa connection and presence of Onodi cells were evaluated. RESULTS: In presellar and sellar SS, type 1 carotid canal was detected. However, type 3 carotid canal was detected more in postsellar SS. On the left side, in 26.4% of the postsellar SS, carotid canal dehiscence was detected. On the right side, carotid canal-intersinus septa connection was detected in 55.8% of the postsellar SS and 35.1% of the sellar SS. On the left side, it was detected 58.3% of the postsellar SS and 30.9% of the sellar SS. In postsellar type SS pneumatized cases, right caroid canal-intersinus septa connection increased by 5.4 fold and left carotid canal-intersinus septa connection increased by 7.3 fold compared to presellar type SS pneumatization. In 2≥ intersinus septa group, left carotid canal-intersinus septa connection increased 5.0 fold compared to 'no septa' group. CONCLUSION: In this study, we evaluated SS pneumatization types and their relation with carotid canal types and carotid canal-intersinus septa connections. Type 3 carotid canal (protrudation to SS wall) was detected more in postsellar SS. In these cases, surgeons should be very careful during surgery to avoid damage to the internal carotid artery (ICA).

Role of Microplastics in Chronic Rhinosinusitis Without Nasal Polyps.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine the relationship between chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps and microplastics. METHODS: A total of 80 patients participated in this prospectively planned study. The patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 had 50 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps, whereas Group 2 had 30 healthy volunteers. The age and gender of the participants were noted. Nose Obstruction Symptom Evaluation questionnaire was applied to the patients. The patients performed nasal lavage with saline. Microplastics were examined in the collected nasal lavage fluids, and their numbers were noted. The groups were compared on these values. RESULTS: The mean age was 38.06 ± 14.15 years in the chronic rhinosinusitis group without nasal polyps and 33.60 ± 11.68 years in the control group. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of age and gender. There was a significant difference in the number of microplastics between the chronic rhinosinusitis group without nasal polyps and the control group (p < 0.001). Microplastics were detected in all participants. CONCLUSIONS: We found more microplastics in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps. According to this result, we can say that there may be a relationship between chronic rhinosinusitis and microplastics. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 134:1077-1080, 2024.

Evaluation of putamen area and cerebral peduncle with surrounding cistern in patients with Parkinson's disease: is there a difference from controls in cranial MRI?

OBJECTIVES: Nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuron loss is essential in pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate nigrostriatal structures including the putamen, cerebral peduncle, widths of interpeduncular cistern, and ambient cistern around the midbrain with conventional cranial magnetic resonance images (MRI) in patients with PD. METHODS: The MRI of 56 subjects was included, which was selected from the radiological data system for this retrospective study. The 29 patients with idiopathic PD were included and their disease duration, Hoehn&Yahr stage, and Levodopa equivalent dose (LED) were recorded. The 27 controls had a normal neurologic examination and cranial MRI. All subjects in the patient and control groups had right-hand dominance. Putamen and cerebral peduncle areas and widths of interpeduncular and ambient cisterns were measured in T2 sequences of MRI. Further statistical analysis was applied to exclude gender and age effect on areas. RESULTS: The areas of putamen and cerebral peduncles were significantly reduced in patients with PD compared to the control bilaterally (p < 0.001). Enlargement of interpeduncular and ambient cisterns in patients was higher than in controls, and it was significant (p < 0.001). A correlation was not observed between measurement results and clinical characteristics of patients with PD. Only the cerebral peduncle area/ambient cistern width ratio was significantly correlated with disease duration positively (right r = 0.46 p = 0.012, left r = 0.389 p = 0.037). CONCLUSION: Clinicians should be careful with conventional MRIs of patients with idiopathic PD in practice. It may be different from controls without any neurological disorder, particularly putamen, cerebral peduncles, interpeduncular, and ambient cisterns.

The areas of putamen and cerebral peduncles were significantly reduced in patients with PDEnlargement of interpeduncular and right ambient cisterns were detected in patients with PDCerebral peduncle area/ambient cistern width ratio was significantly correlated with disease duration positivelyMRIs of patients with idiopathic PD may be different from controls without any neurological disorder, particularly putamen, cerebral peduncles, interpeduncular, and ambient cisterns.

Facial mask for prevention of allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Objectives: We reviewed the role of facial masks in preventing allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms. Methods: The literature survey was performed in PubMed, EBSCO, UpToDate, and Proquest Central databases of Kirikkale University and Google and Google Scholar databases. Results: Aeroallergens are microscopic airborne particles that trigger AR symptoms. In sensitive people, the type 1 hypersensitivity reaction against these allergens occurs when these microparticles enter the nasal mucosa via inhalation. Pollens, molds, dust mites, and animal dander are only some of the allergens suspected of contributing to AR symptoms. The treatment guidelines for AR extensively encompass allergy avoidance and environmental management as the first-line treatment. It is recommended that those who experience seasonal symptoms try to avoid their triggers whenever possible. While medical masks filter out particles larger than 3 µm, FFP2 masks are effective against particles as small as 0.004 µm. Since both mask types are effective in filtering pollen larger than 5 µm in size, they can be used to prevent pollen exposure. The "antiviral protection" provided by medical and FFP2 masks to hospital employees is roughly equivalent. Thus, both should be effective against direct local (eye) or indirect inhaled (nose, bronchial) pollen exposure. For the masks to do their job, they need to fit correctly. Conclusion: Face mask affects AR patients' quality of life and reduces AR symptoms' severity.

The Relationship between Sphenoid Sinus, Carotid Canal, and Optical Canal in Paranasal Sinus Computed Tomography in Children.

Objectives The authors examined the structural differences in the paranasal sinus region at sphenoid sinus in the pediatric population. Methods Paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNSCT) images of 86 pediatric subjects (30 males, 56 females) were included. In 13 to 15 years of age group ( n =34) and ≥16 years of age group ( n =52), sphenoid sinus pneumatization (SSP), optic canal and carotid canal classifications and dehiscence evaluation were performed. Results In both sexes, type 1 and type 2 SS pneumatization were observed more frequently on both the right and left sides. On the right side, type 2> type 1; on the left side type 1> type 2 optic canals were detected in both gender. Type 3 optic canals were detected in 8.8 to 14.7% of the 13 to 15 years of age group; and 11.5 to 17.3% of ≥16 years of age group. Type 4 optic canals were detected in 2.9% of the 13 to 15 years of age group and 1.9% of the ≥16 years of age group bilaterally. Optic canal dehiscence was detected in 26.5% of the 13 to 15 years of age group and 17.3% of the ≥16 years of age group. Type 1 and type 2 carotid canals are most common in children, the percentages for type 3 carotid canals were 1.8 to 3.6% in children. Conclusion In pneumatized SS, optic canal classifications got increased values which showed protrusion into the sphenoid sinus wall. Therefore, in children, the surgeons must be very careful for optic canal being nearer to the sphenoid sinus walls.

Detection of microplastics in patients with allergic rhinitis.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the relationship between microplastics, which are a worldwide health and environmental issue, and their relationship to allergic rhinitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 66 patients participated in this prospective study. The patients were divided into two groups. While there were 36 patients with allergic rhinitis in group 1, there were 30 healthy volunteers in group 2. The participants' age, gender and Score for Allergic Rhinitis results were noted. Microplastics were examined in the nasal lavage fluids of the patients and their numbers noted. The groups were compared on these values. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of age and gender. There was a significant difference between the allergic rhinitis group and the control group in terms of the Score for Allergic Rhinitis results (p < 0.001). In the allergic rhinitis group, the microplastic density in the nasal lavage was significantly higher than in the control group (p = 0.027). Microplastics were detected in all participants. CONCLUSIONS: We found more microplastics in allergic rhinitis patients. According to this result, we can say that there is a relationship between allergic rhinitis and microplastics.

Evaluation of Clinical Features and Olfactory Functions in COVID-19: A Multicentre Study.

Introduction Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) causes olfactory loss one of the initial diagnostic criteria. The brief smell identification test (BSIT) is an objective test frequently used in olfactory dysfunction. This study aimed to observe the changes in olfactory functions and clinical features in a short time in COVID-19. Methods In this prospective study involving 64 patients, the BSIT was performed at two different times; at the time of first application and on the 14th day. Demographic features, laboratory findings, body mass index (BMI), blood oxygen saturation values (SpO2), complaints at first admission, fever, follow-up place, and treatment schemes were noted. Results There was a significant difference between the BSIT scores at the first admission and when the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) became negative on the 14th day (p<0.001). Low oxygen saturation values at first admission were associated with low BSIT scores. No relationship was found between olfactory functions and complaints at admission, fever, follow-up place, and treatment schemes. Conclusion As a result, negative effects of COVID-19 on olfactory functions have been demonstrated even in the short follow-up period. In addition, low saturation values at first admission were associated with low BSIT scores.

Peripheric and central olfactory measurements in patients with bipolar disorder.

BACKGROUND: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a mental health disorder. PURPOSE: To investigate the peripheric and central olfactory measurements in patients with BD using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was conducted retrospectively. Group 1 consisted of 27 euthymic patients with BD (14 men, 13 women) and Group 2 consisted of 27 healthy controls (14 men, 13 women). Olfactory bulb (OB) volume and olfactory sulcus (OS) depth (peripheric), and corpus amygdala and insular gyrus area (central) measurements were performed using cranial MRI. RESULTS: OB volume and OS depth value of the bipolar group were lower than the control group, but there were no significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). The corpus amygdala and left insular gyrus area of the bipolar group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). There were positive correlations between OB volumes and OS depths, the insular gyrus areas, and the corpus amygdala areas (P < 0.05). As the number of depressive episodes and duration of illness increased in bipolar patients, the depth of the sulcus decreased (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In the present study a correlation was detected between OB volumes and the structures, known as emotional processing (e.g. insular gyrus area, corpus amygdala), and clinical features. Accordingly, new treatment techniques, such as olfactory training, may be considered an option in the treatment of such patients with BD.

Is There a Relationship between Optic Nerve and Chiasm Measurements with HbA1c Levels in Diabetic Patients?

Objectives We investigated the optic nerve (ON) and chiasm (OC) in magnetic resonance (MR) in diabetic patients by comparing them with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Methods In this retrospective study, cranial MRIs of 42 adults (19 males and 23 females) with diabetes mellitus (DM) (group1) and 40 healthy controls (19 males and 21 females) (group 2) were included. In both groups, bilateral ON widths and OC area, width, and height were measured. In the DM group, HbA1c values were also obtained at the time of MRI or within the same month. Results In the DM group, the mean of the HbA1c values was 8.31 ± 2.51%. There were no significant differences between ON diameter; and OC area, width and height of the DM and control groups ( p > 0.05). In each of the DM and control groups, ON diameter was not different between the right and left sides ( p > 0.05). In DM groups, correlation tests showed that there were positive correlations between right and left ON diameters, OC area and OC width, and OC height ( p < 0.05). In males, ON diameters were higher than those in females bilaterally ( p < 0.05). In patients with higher HbA1c values, OC width was smaller ( p < 0.05). Conclusion A significant correlation of OC width and HbA1c levels suggests that uncontrolled DM causes ON atrophy. Our study represents a thorough assessment of OC measures using standard brain MRI to evaluate optic degeneration in DM patients and shows that the OC width measurement is suitable and reliable. This simple method can be obtained from clinically available scans.

Supraorbital ethmoid cells (SOECs), anterior ethmoid artery notch and ethmoid roof relation in PNSCT.

OBJECTIVES: We investigated supraorbital ethmoid cell (SOEC) presence and types in paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNSCT). METHODS: The PNSCT images of 188 adult patients (93 males and 95 females) were evaluated as SOEC group (n = 87 sides), and non-SOEC group (n = 289 sides, control). In both groups, anterior ethmoid artery (AEA) notch-ethmoid roof distance and presence of AEA canal were evaluated. In the SOEC group, SOEC types (type 1 to 3) and SOEC angle are also examined. RESULTS: SOEC was detected in 87 sides (23.13 %). SOEC type 2 was the most detected type (71.3 %). AEA notch-ethmoid roof distance of the SOEC group was significantly higher than those in the non-SOEC group. AEA notch-ethmoid roof distance of the SOEC Type 3 group was significantly higher than SOEC Type 2 group. AEA notch-ethmoid roof distance was 3.74 ± 1.81 mm in the SOEC group and 0.68 ± 1.16 mm in the non-SOEC group. When SOEC types were considered, this distance was 5.29 ± 2.66 mm in type 3, 3.35 ± 1.35 mm in type 2 and 3.48 ± 0.92 mm in type 1. In higher SOEC types, SOEC angle; and AEA notch-ethmoid roof distance increased. CONCLUSION: In more pneumatized SOEC presence, SOEC angle increase, and AEA notch-ethmoid roof distance increases, AEA runs inferiorly in the ethmoid cells and freely below the skull base; and is more susceptible to injury. The surgeons should be more careful not to damage AEA in the FESS when detecting well-pneumatized SOECs (SOEC Type 3).

Relationship Between Nasal Septal Deviation Angles and Turbinates: A Computed Tomography Study.

Background This study aimed to evaluate inferior turbinate hypertrophy caused by nasal septum deviation, nasal septal deviation (SD) angles, and age differences with the help of paranasal computed tomography (CT) and to investigate the relationship between these parameters. Methodology The paranasal sinus CT images of 100 patients (50 males and 50 females) were retrieved from the hospital's picture archiving and communication system. In this retrospective study, patients were examined in two groups. There were 50 patients aged >35 years in group 1 and 50 patients aged <35 years in group 2. The SD side was determined using a coronal image and was mentioned as the ipsilateral side. The contralateral side of the SD side was mentioned as the contralateral side. Additionally, the SD curve angle (SDCA), superior SD angle (SSDA), and diameters and mucosal thicknesses of the inferior turbinates were measured. Concomitant ipsilateral sinusitis and ipsilateral concha bullosa (in the middle concha) were also noted as present or absent. Results In our study, the SDCA values of the ≥35-year age group were significantly higher than those of the <35-year age group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the SSDA values of the ≥35-year age group were significantly lower than those of the <35-year age group (p < 0.05). In each of the age groups, ipsilateral inferior turbinate mucosal thickness and ipsilateral inferior turbinate diameter values were significantly higher than those of the contralateral sides (p < 0.05). Ipsilateral concha bullosa was present in 30.0% of the <35-year age group and 18.0% of the ≥35-year age group. Ipsilateral sinusitis was present in 34.0% of the <35-year age group and 52.0% of the ≥35-year age group. Conclusions SD and inferior turbinate hypertrophies should be evaluated together and measured with paranasal CT to provide more efficient nasal aeration. Studies with larger patient series are needed to elucidate the etiology.

Maxillary sinus volume and mucosal thickening according to the septal deviation angle and age of the children.

We examined the relationship between nasal septal deviation (SD) angle and maxillary sinus volumes by examining the paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNSCT) images in children. In this retrospective study, PNSCT images of 106 children with one-sided nasal SD were included. According to the SD angle, two groups were identified: Group 1 (n = 54): SD angle ≤ 11°, Group 2 (n = 52): SD angle > 11°. There were 23 children between 9 and 14 years and 83 children between 15 and 17 years. Maxillary sinus volume and mucosal thickening were evaluated. In 15- to 17-year age group, maxillary sinus volumes of males were higher than females bilaterally. For each of the males and females, ipsilateral maxillary sinus volume was significantly lower than the contralateral side in all children and in 15- to 17-year age group. In each of the SD angle values (≤11 or >11) separately, ipsilateral maxillary sinus volume was lower; and in the SD angle > 11° group, maxillary sinus mucosal thickening values were higher than those of the contralateral side. In young children in 9- to 14-year age group, bilateral maxillary sinus volumes decreased, in this group maxillary sinus volume was not affected according to the SD. However, in 15- to 17-year age groups, maxillary sinus volume was lower on the ipsilateral SD side; and ipsilateral and contralateral maxillary sinus volumes of the males were significantly higher than those in the females. SD should be treated at an appropriate time to prevent SD-related maxillary sinus volume shrinkage and rhinosinusitis.

A safety investigation into topical effects of naproxen sodium on nasal epithelial cells and potential toxicity in local application.

OBJECTIVES: We examined how topically-applied naproxen sodium affects human nasal epitheliocytes in culture. METHODS: Samples of healthy human primary nasal epithelium (NE) harvested during septoplasty from volunteers without rhinosinusitis were incubated in cell culture. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays may be utilised when assessing cellular damage (toxicity), as evidenced by DNA fragmentation, nuclear condensation, alteration in the outer plasma membrane and cytoskeletal alteration. This was the method used in the study. Cultured epitheliocytes were incubated with naproxen sodium for 24 h at 37 °C. The MTT assay was then performed and the cells' morphology was examined by confocal microscopy. Additionally, cellular proliferation was assessed by the artificial scratch method followed by light microscopy. RESULTS: The results indicated that naproxen sodium does not cause any cytotoxic effects upon nasal epithelial cells when applied topically. There was no evidence indicating cytotoxicity on the nasal epitheliocytes in culture for the 24 h period over which the drug was applied. In particular, there was no alteration in cellular morphology, damage to the intracellular organelles structure or the cytoskeleton secondary to naproxen sodium. Furthermore, cellular proliferation occurred normally in these conditions, as on scratch test. CONCLUSION: Topical naproxen sodium may be used on nasal epithelial cells without inducing toxicity. This agent is therefore suitable, given its known anti-inflammatory effects, for use in patients suffering from diseases involving nasal and paranasal sinusal inflammation, including rhinosinusitis (both chronic and acute) and nasal polyposis which should be investigated. In the future, topical medication forms for nasal usage should be developed.