Evaluation of estrogenic receptors in the nasal mucosa of women taking oral contraceptives

Background: There is evidence that the nasal mucosa is affected by estrogen influence. Some authors have already detected estrogen receptors (ER) in the nasal mucosa. However, there doesn't seem to be a consensus about the concentration and distribution of the ER or the possible influence of hormonal contraceptives in the nasal mucosa. Objective: The study was conducted to evaluate the influence of oral contraceptives on the distribution and concentration of estrogenic receptors in nasal mucosa. Study Design: Two groups of 32 women with regular menstrual cycles were selected. One group of women was taking oral contraceptives and the other was not. Samples of mucosa of inferior nasal turbinate were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining for alpha and beta ER. Results: The use of oral contraceptives induced a decrease of beta-receptors only in lamina propria cells. In both groups, there was a predominance of beta-receptors. Conclusion: Women who took oral contraceptives showed a decrease of beta-receptors in some cells of the lamina propria. These findings show us the possibility of effects of contraceptive pills on the cells such as fibroblasts, mast cells, plasmocytes, and other inflammatory cells. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.