Method for in Vivo Measurement of Mucociliary Activity in the Human Nose

The aim of the investigation was to develop a method for observing mucociliary activity in the human nose in vivo without possible artifacts introduced by anesthesia or surgical intervention. A probe containing an optical system was constructed for the purpose, mucociliary activity on the nasal septum being photoelectrically analyzed by computer. Challenges with pharmacologic substances were administered with a standardized nebulizer delivering an aerosol heated to 33 degrees C. The baseline mucociliary wave frequency in vivo was 691.7 +/- 93.0 waves per minute (11.5 +/- 1.6 Hz), and the corresponding ciliary beat frequency in vitro was 800.7 +/- 85.4 beats per minute (13.3 +/- 1.4 Hz). The coefficients of variation were 13.4% between individuals and 11.3% +/- 2.1% (range 8.3% to 14.3%) within a subject. The method showed good reproducibility regarding recordings from different spots on the mucosa and on a day-to-day basis. Challenge with the beta 2-agonist terbutaline sulfate produced an increase of mucociliary activity of 40.6% +/- 7.8% (mean +/- SEM), which is consistent with previous results in animal models. This is the first report of a method suitable for in vivo studies of the mucociliary effects of challenge with autonomic agonists and airway irritants in humans.