Evaluation of Histopathological Changes of Long-Term Use of Sodium Cromoglycate on Healthy Rat Nasal Respiratory Mucosa with Light Microscopy

Abstract

Objective:To demonstrate the histopathological effects of the long-term use of cromolyn sodium on healthy rat nasal mucosa using the light microscope.Methods:The animals were grouped according to the intranasal administered agents: first group (n=10), intranasal 10 µL saline administration; second group (n=10), intranasal 10 µL cromolyn sodium with the help of a micropipette for one month duration.Results:When we assessed mucosal edema and increased goblet cell number, there were no statistical differences between control and study groups (p>0.05). However, the assessment of decreased epithelial thickness and squamous metaplasia between control and study groups revealed significant differences (respectively: p=0.001, p=0.001; p<0.05). Also focal ciliary loss was statistically significant for the study group (p=0.001; p<0.01).Conclusion:Sodium cromoglycate, a cromolyn type of agent has been used for a long time in the treatment of allergic diseases. Cromolyns stabilize the mast cell membrane and inhibit secretion of histamine and other autacoids (leukotrienes, etc.). Therefore, prior to contact with the allergen, topical use of cromolyns gives good symptomatic, but is less effective after exposure to the allergens. In addition, their prophylactic efficacy starts after a few weeks of regular application. However, our study demonstrated that long-term use of this substance resulted in a rhinitis medicamentosa like effect on nasal mucosa.

Keywords

• sodium cromoglycate
• nasal mucosa
• histopathology