Intranasal levels of lead as an exacerbation factor for allergic rhinitis in humans and mice

BackgroundAir pollutants are suspected to affect pathological conditions of allergic rhinitis (AR).ObjectivesAfter detecting Pb (375 ?g/kg) in Japanese cedar pollen, the effects intranasal exposure on symptoms AR were investigated.MethodsPollen counts, subjective symptoms, and levels nasal epithelial lining fluid (ELF) investigated 44 patients with pollinosis 57 controls from preseason season. Effects confirmed by using a mouse model AR.ResultsPb ELF >40% higher than those control subjects during pollen season but not before level was positively associated counts for latest 4 days visiting hospital as well scores symptoms. Intranasal exacerbated mice, suggesting an exacerbation factor. mucosa Pb-exposed mice nonallergic despite intranasally challenging same amount Pb. Because increased decreased after washing cavity, surface inside may have been source mice.ConclusionsIncreased partially derived could exacerbate AR, indicating novel hazardous air pollutant AR. Air (AR). After investigated. Pollen mice. Increased