The evaluation of the nasal cavities of subjects with nasal pathologies and those exposed to environmental contaminants is very important. Nasal mucosal histology is similar to that in the lower airways. Therefore, an inflammatory response seen in the nasal passages may be a warning signal of inflammation in the lower airways. Biomarkers in the nasal cavities can be easily detected in many ways. However, it is necessary to have a method of quantifying this effects that is safe and simple to perform. Nasal lavage fulfills these criteria and should be considered when studying this area.
nasal lavage; biomarkers; nasal lavage cellularity