Mast Cell Deficiency Limits the Development of Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Mice.

Background:Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is one of the most common chronic diseases in adults in both developing and developed countries. The etiology and pathogenesis of CRS remain poorly understood, and the disease is refractory to therapy in many patients. Mast cell activation has been demonstrated in the sinonasal mucosa of patients with CRS; however, the specific contribution of mast cells to the development and pathogenesis of this disease has not been established.Objective:The objective of this study was to investigate the role of mast cells in the development of CRS.Methods:C57BL/6 wild-type and C57BL/6-KitW-sh/W-sh mast cell–deficient mice were immunized by intraperitoneal allergen injection and subsequent chronic low dose intranasal allergen challenges. The sinonasal phenotypes of these groups were then evaluated and compared to saline-treated controls using radiologic, histologic, and immunologic methods.Results:Wild-type mice exposed to chronic intranasal allergen developed many features seen i...