The human respiratory nasal mucosa in females using contraceptive pills

Abstract

The ultrastructure and histochemical changes in 25 females using contraceptive pills were studied. Fifteen pill-using females developing no nasal symptoms showed similar changes to those observed in symptom-free pregnant females. Ten pill-using females developing nasal symptoms showed squamous metaplasia, interepithelial oedema, glandular hyperplasia, histiocytic proliferation and fibrous tissue deposition, all attributed to the action of oestrogen. Their histochemical reactions were similar to those of chronic hypertrophic non-allergic rhinitis.