PENETRATION OF INHALED POLLEN INTO RESPIRATORY-TRACT

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Abstract
The pathophysiologic mechanisms of pollen-induced asthma have previously remained unclear because pollen particles were considered too large to penetrate into the lower respiratory tract. Such grains were believed to be unable to induce an immunologic response in the lower respiratory tract. Experimental curves of particle penetration into the respiratory tract indicate that a small percentage of large-sized particles may penetrate into the peripheral areas of the lungs. In this study a radioisotopic method using labeled pollen [Fraxinus excelsior] grains was not effective in detecting the very small number of grains expected to be found in the [human] lung. Another simpler and more effective method was used which was derived from techniques used by palynologists in the detection of pollen grains in sediments. Pollen grains were present in tracheobronchial secretions and in lung parenchyma. Thus, inhaled pollen may penetrate into the distal lower respiratory tract.

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