Comparison of Collecting Methods of Nasal Fluids Using Albumin after Nasal Provocation in Allergic Patients

Background and ObjectivesZZAlthough different methods of collecting nasal fluid exist and can influence the result of the study, there have not been any studies made yet to com pare the different methods. The authors aimed to evaluate the usefulness of these methods by comparing the albumin concentration of nasal fluid after nasal provocation in patients with allergic rhinitis. Subjects and MethodZZIn 22 patients with allergic rhinitis, we measured the change of nasal obstruction and rhinorrhea after nasal provocation using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). In Group A (n=10), the nasal lavage and direct suction method were used and in Group B (n=12), nasal lavage and filter paper method were used. Nasal fluids were obtained before, 20 min after and 8 hours after provocation. The concentration of albumin was calculated using rate nephelometry. ResultsZZPatientsʼ nasal symptoms were aggravated in early allergic reaction but subsided in late reaction. There was meaningful increase of albumin concentration with the use of direct suction and filter paper methods. In contrast, there was no significant increase of con centration with the use of lavage method. ConclusionZZThe filter paper method is superior in the quantitative analysis of mediators in nasal fluid after nasal provocation in allergic patients. The lavage method, however, is considered inappropriate because of its dilution effect. Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2010;53:615-9 Key WordsZZNasal lavage fluid ㆍNasal provocation tests ㆍAllergic rhinitis.