Rhinocytogram
Rhinocytogram is a microscopic examination of the cellular composition of a nasal cavity smear.
The test allows assessment of nasal mucosa status, detecting inflammation, allergic changes, and regenerative processes.
Particularly informative for chronic rhinitis, allergies, nasal congestion, and changes after therapy.
Test components:
- Squamous epithelium — cells lining the mucosal surface; their presence in the smear is considered normal.
- Goblet cells — secretory cells releasing mucus to protect the mucosa.
Ciliated epithelium — cells with cilia participating in clearing the mucosa of microorganisms and dust. - Leukocytes — white blood cells, part of the immune system; elevated count may indicate inflammation.
- Neutrophils — a type of leukocyte actively fighting bacterial infections.
- Lymphocytes — immune system cells responsible for fighting viruses and forming immunity.
- Eosinophils — leukocytes participating in body protection against parasites and in allergic reactions.
- Macrophages (monocytes) — cells engulfing foreign particles, bacteria, and dead cells.
- Mucus — secretion protecting the mucosa and creating a barrier against microorganisms.
- Erythrocytes — red blood cells; their presence in the smear usually indicates micro-damage to the mucosa.
- Yeast fungi — representatives of conditionally pathogenic microflora; excessive growth may cause candidiasis.
- Flora — normal microorganisms maintaining balance and mucosal health.
Biomaterial: Nasal cavity smear
- Avoid excessive nose cleaning and aggressive procedures for 12-24 hours.
- Material collection is performed before treatment starts or as prescribed by a physician.
Medications: if possible, avoid using local nasal preparations 24-48 hours before the test.
What the test assesses:
- Ratio of cellular elements — normal and pathological cells.
- Signs of inflammation — increased leukocyte infiltration.
- Degree of changes — allergic or chronic processes.
The test allows detection of:
- signs of allergic inflammation
- bacterial or viral process
- chronic nasal mucosal inflammation
- mucosal reaction to various irritants
- Normal: epithelial cells predominate without signs of inflammation.
- Inflammatory changes: elevated leukocyte count, signs of bacterial or viral infection.
- Allergic changes: increased eosinophils, signs of mucosal hyperreactivity.
Regenerative processes: predominance of metaplastic cells after mucosal damage.
