Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological effects of decongestive drops and sprays on human respiratory mucosa in vitro. Precultured fragments of adenoid tissue in a specially designed tissue culture system were exposed to decongestive preparations for 10 minutes once a day for 10 days. Tissue exposed to preparations preserved with benzalkonium chloride and tissue exposed to benzalkonium chloride alone underwent severe morphological alterations. Unpreserved decongestive substances did not have this effect. Benzalkonium chloride is a well-documented toxic substance in several respects. Supported by previous studies, it may seem unfortunate to use it as an additive in decongestive preparations.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Adenoids / drug effects*
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Adenoids / pathology
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Benzalkonium Compounds / pharmacology
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Cell Membrane / drug effects
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Cell Membrane / ultrastructure
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Cell Survival / drug effects
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Cilia / drug effects
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Cilia / pathology
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Culture Techniques
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Desmosomes / drug effects
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Desmosomes / ultrastructure
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Epithelium / drug effects
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Epithelium / pathology
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Humans
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Imidazoles / pharmacology
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Microscopy, Electron
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Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
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Microscopy, Phase-Contrast
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Microvilli / drug effects
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Microvilli / ultrastructure
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Nasal Decongestants / pharmacology*
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Nasal Mucosa / drug effects*
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Nasal Mucosa / pathology
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Nuclear Envelope / drug effects
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Nuclear Envelope / ultrastructure
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Oxymetazoline / pharmacology
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Preservatives, Pharmaceutical / pharmacology
Substances
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Benzalkonium Compounds
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Imidazoles
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Nasal Decongestants
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Preservatives, Pharmaceutical
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Oxymetazoline
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xylometazoline