Measurement of blood flow to human nasal mucosa in normal and pathological conditions by the use of the 133Xe clearance technique.

The blood flow to nasal mucosa in normal subjects and in allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis and laryngectomized patients was measured using the 133Xe clearance technique. The results were statistically compared and correlated with capillary diameter. Compared to the normal group, the blood flow to nasal mucosa increased in allergic and vasomotor rhinitis patients and decreased in laryngectomized patients. There was a statistically significant difference between allergic and vasomotor groups (p less than 0.01), so the present method could be used in the differential diagnosis of rhinitis.