[The saccharin test in the pediatric broncho-pneumonologic outpatient clinic. A noninvasive screening method for the assessment of ciliary function of the respiratory tract in children].

: The Saccharin test is a non-dangerous, inexpensive, suitable and repeatable method for assessing the mucociliary function of the respiratory epithelium. A small quantity of Saccharin (R) is deposited on the inferior nasal concha; the chemical agent will be transported by the respiratory epithelium (kinocilia) from the nasopharynx to the oropharynx and can be tasted here as "sweet". The time interval between the deposition of Saccharin and the "sweet" taste is the "nasal mucociliary transport time (nmctt)"; data in minutes. In 381 children (age: 3-17 years) we found an average nmctt of 6.6 (+/- 4.8) min (healthy controls) and 8.8 (+/- 5.2) min resp. (CNSRD children). A nmctt longer than 30 min leads one to suspect disturbances of the mucociliary function, the aetiology of which can be analysed by mucosa biopsy and subsequent examination under the electron microscope. We hold the view that Saccharin test is an essential part of the diagnostic program for children suffering from CNSRD; after 3 tests the mucociliary function can be evaluated correctly. The test can be used both for diagnosing the aetiology of respiratory diseases and for the assessment of the efficiency of therapeutic and prophylactic measures.