Bacteriostatic Properties of the Secretions of the Sinuses

Abstract

The normal secretions of the sinuses is a grayish, viscous fluid that bathes the entire lining membrane, protecting it and assisting the ciliated epithelium in the removal of foreign substances. The physical properties of this fluid and its r\l=o^\lein the protection of the sinuses have been studied by Yates,1 Walthard 2 and Stark.3 Bacteriologic observations by T\l=o"\rne,4 Frankel,5 Calamida and Bartarelli,6 and Linton7 indicate that the normal nasal sinus is usually sterile. The important r\l=o^\le played by the ciliated epithelium in producing this result is recognized; however, it has long been suspected that some antibacterial substance in the secretions is a contributing factor. It was the object of this study to determine whether such a substance exists, and, if it does, to find out something of its nature.According to Hilding,8 the normal histology of the sinus in man shows numerous goblet cells in the epithelium and the glands of the tubular and compound racemose types in the submucosa ; the latter may be mucous, serous or mixed. It is evident, therefore, that the secretion may vary in consistency, depending on the relative activity of the mucous and serous glands. Under normal conditions, however, the amount of variation is slight. The principal constituent and the one that imparts its characteristic viscous properties to the secretion is the mucus as

Early studies of airway submucosal glands

“…This, however, was not immediately appreciated. The earliest studies, beginning in 1896, found airway surface liquid to be sterile or nearly so; when added to agar plates, few or no microbial colonies formed (42). Investigators also failed to detect bactericidal activity in nasal secretions (82).…”