Pathogenesis of nasal polyps.

On the basis of studies on the glands of the nasal mucosa and polyps as well as the structure of the latter, some previous pathogenetic theories are analysed. The authors advance their own theory of polyp formation: Infiltration and oedema in the nasal mucosa result in rupture of the epithelium and formation of granulations which gradually become lined with pseudostratified columnar epithelium. During growth of the polyp there occurs formation of mucous glands which owing to growth of the polyps become long and stretched.