Subclinical Nasal and Lung Lymphocytosis in Ulcerative Colitis

Abstract

Background: Extraintestinal manifestations are common in ulcerative colitis (UC). Data regarding pulmonary and nasal mucosa involvement are sparse. Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate, by using induced sputum (IS) and nasal cytology (NC), the cytological pattern of the lung and nose in patients with UC. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 15 consecutive subjects from the outpatient department with a recent diagnosis of UC. On the same day of enrollment, we performed a global spirometry, including a lung diffusing capacity test, IS analysis, and evaluation of NC. Results: IS analysis showed an increase in lymphocytes in UC patients when compared to those of controls (2.8 ± 0.9 vs. 0.2 ± 0.4%; p < 0.01). NC showed a similar increase in lymphocytes (12.5 ± 5.30 vs. 3.5 ± 4.0%; p < 0.01). We found a positive correlation between lymphocyte counts in IS and NC (r = 0.775; p < 0.001) and between lymphocytes in IS and NC and grade of intestinal inflammation (r = 0.603, p = 0.015; r = 0.60, p = 0.013). Conclusions: Our data demonstrated that UC patients may have a subclinical nasal and lung lymphocytosis.