Association of Nerve Fibers and Plasma Cells in Abnormal Human Nasal Respiratory Mucosa

Abstract

Degeneration of sensory and autonomic nerve endings and intimate association of preterminal nerve fibers with plasma cells are described in eight patients suffering from nasal congestion. Two of the patients also suffered from nasal polyps. The association between nerve fibers and plasma cells is characterized by membrane to membrane apposition, absence of the nerve basement membrane in the contact area, and by extension of the nerve basement membrane from the free surface of the nerve fiber over the free surface of the plasma cell. It is suggested that the degeneration of nerves may be caused by autoimmune reaction as a result of tissue exposure to infection or drugs, and that the development of polyps may be the consequence of chronic tissue denervation.