Nasal nitric oxide in man

Abstract

Large amounts of NO are constantly being released in the nasal airways of humans and the paranasal sinuses seem to be the major source of this NO. Nasal NO may have important local as well as distal effects in, for example, host defence and regulation of pulmonary function. The measurement of nasal NO levels may be helpful in further exploring the physiological and pathophysiological roles of this gas in the airways. Moreover, this simple test may be clinically useful in the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of certain respiratory disorders. To evaluate fully the potential of nasal NO measurements in the clinical setting it is important that we develop a standardised and reliable technique. We also need to know more about the different factors that affect nasal NO levels.