Expression of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor in Nasal Polyps

Background. The pathogenesis of nasal polyposis remains unclear. The proliferation of fibroblasts contributes to their development and growth. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a member of the heparin−binding growth factor family and may be involved in various pathological processes, including tissue lesion in the upper respira− tory tract. Objectives. The aim of this study was to determine the role of bFGF in the pathogenesis of nasal polyps by com− parative analysis of its expression in neutrophilic and eosinophilic polyps, including patients with aspirin triad. Material and Methods. The study group included 28 patients (20 males and 8 females) with nasal polyposis undergoing polypectomy. The control group consisted of 10 normal nasal mucosa specimens from patients under− going septoplasty. Twenty of the nasal polyps were histopathologically classified as eosinophilic and eight as neu− trophilic. Immunohistochemistry was used to examine the expression of bFGF in the nasal polyp tissues. Results. bFGF immunostaining was detected both in the neutrophilic and eosinophilic polyp tissues. Particularly intense immunolabeling of bFGF was present in the nasal polyps with a high degree of neutrophil infiltration. Conclusions. The expression of bFGF was more intense in nasal polyp tissues than in normal mucosa. The exam− ined factor was mainly localized in the vascular endothelium and inflammatory cells. Considering the stimulatory properties of bFGF on epithelial blood vessels and fibroblast proliferation, this growth factor seems to be involved in the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis (Adv Clin Exp Med 2008, 17, 1, 33–40).