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Previous reports have demonstrated that a non-neuronal cholinergic system is expressed aberrantly in airways. A proliferative effect is exerted directly by cholinergic agonists through the activation of nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. In cancer, particularly those related with smoking, the mechanism through which tumour cells respond to aberrantly activated cholinergic signalling is a key question. Fifty paired pieces of larynx squamous cell carcinoma and adjacent non-cancerous tissue were compared in terms of their acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE). The AChE activity in non-cancerous tissues (0.248 ± 0.030 milliunits per milligram of wet tissue; mU/mg) demonstrates that upper respiratory tissues express sufficient AChE activity for controlling the level of acetylcholine (ACh). In larynx carcinomas, the AChE activity decreased to 0.157 ± 0.024 mU/mg (p=0.009). Larynx cancer patients exhibiting low ACh-degrading enzymatic activity had a significantly shorter overall survival (p=0.031). Differences in the mRNA levels of alternatively spliced AChE isoforms and molecular compositions were noted between glottic and supraglottic cancers. Our results suggest that the low AChE activity observed in larynx squamous cell carcinoma may be useful for predicting the outcome of patients., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: In airways, a proliferative effect is played directly by cholinergic agonists through nicotinic and muscarinic receptors activation. How tumors respond to aberrantly activated cholinergic signalling is a key question in smoking-related cancer. This research was addressed to explore a possible link of cholinergic signalling changes with cancer biology., Methods: Fifty-seven paired pieces of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and adjacent non-cancerous tissue (ANCT) were compared for their mRNA levels for ACh-related proteins and ACh-hydrolyzing activity., Results: The measurement in ANCT of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activities (5.416 ± 0.501 mU/mg protein and 6.350 ± 0.599 mU/mg protein, respectively) demonstrated that upper respiratory tract is capable of controlling the availability of ACh. In HNSCC, AChE and BChE activities dropped to 3.584 ± 0.599 mU/mg protein (p = 0.002) and 3.965 ± 0.423 mU/mg protein (p < 0.001). Moreover, tumours with low AChE activity and high BChE activity were associated with shorter patient overall survival. ANCT and HNSCC differed in mRNA levels for AChE-T, α3, α5, α9 and β2 for nAChR subunits. Tobacco exposure had a great impact on the expression of both AChE-H and AChE-T mRNAs. Unaffected and cancerous pieces contained principal AChE dimers and BChE tetramers. The lack of nerve-born PRiMA-linked AChE agreed with pathological findings on nerve terminal remodelling and loss in HNSCC., Conclusions: Our results suggest that the low AChE activity in HNSCC can be used to predict survival in patients with head and neck cancer. So, the ChE activity level can be used as a reliable prognostic marker.

Hypothesis: After sinus surgery poor ciliary activity and disorders in mucus production can lead to an increase in postoperative complications., Purpose of This Study: To evaluate the changes in the ultrastructure of submucosal glands (SG) and goblet cells (GC) after partial or wide surgical removal of maxillary sinus mucosa (MSM)., Methods: Twenty New Zealand White rabbits were divided in two groups of 10 animals. In group A, the mucosa of the right maxillary sinus (MS) was removed. In contrast, in group B only a strip the mucosa around the ostium was removed. After three months the sinus were opened and the mucosa studied by light-, and scanning- and transmision electron microscopy., Results: After three months in group A all right MS were infected with purulent secretions, and the density of SG with a mean value of 10.4 per mm, standard deviation (SD) 3.36 and GC 81.81 per mm (SD: 3.82). However, in group B the SG were 52.3 per mm (SD: 4.5) and GC 4.45 per mm (SD: 1.23). These results were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Histopathological findings showed in group A, after three months, SG with a fewer number of microvilli in the glandular lumen.

A histochemistry study by means of lectins of vomeronasal organ or Jacobson's organ was performed in 5 Wistar rats. Vomeronasal organ is localized at the antero-inferior level of the septum and present two kinds of epithelium, an olfactory one and other respiratory, on the medial and on the lateral part, respectively. Olfactory epithelium shows a great reactivity to WGA lectin, moderate to PNA and weck to Con-A and SBA. In the respiratory epithelium the reactivity is moderate to DBA, PNa, SBA and WGA lectins for goblet cells, instead the periciliary sheat of mucus is reactive to all lectins but DBA and LTA.

An histochemistry study with lectins was performed in the epiglottis and cricoid cartilages of 4 Syrian golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). The results show that there are differences in glycoconjugates between both cartilages. In the epiglottic matrix there was no reactivity to HPA, PNA and DBA lectins. However the cricoid cartilage showed no reactivity to SBA. Neither of cartilage matrixes were reactive to LTA or Con-A.

A histochemical study, with lectins, in oropharyngeal cavity of 5 Syrian golden Hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) was performed in order to know the tongue submucous glands characteristics. Results showed a strong reactivity to HPA lectin for secretions of submucous glands of the Hamster's tongue and a slight reactivity to N-WGA and to WGA lectins.

The paper deals about classical histologic and histochemical study for mucinoid substances through 7 laryngeal pieces coming from clinic autopsies. The gland units occurring in the two lower thirds of the epiglottis were formed by a great number of serous acini and mucinous tubuli, which secretion is acid and neutral mucous substances, as sialomucins, serving as lubricant and protective means. This glandular system convey through the epiglottic perforans holes, without break, the pre-epiglottic and epiglottic spaces, with the clinical repercussion that suggest the chance of encroachment for incipient epiglottic cancer to pre-epiglottic room.

We present a case of cavernous laryngeal hemangioma in an elderly lady. The limited surface of the lesion and its location and implantation basis as well allowed an endolaryngeal surgery.

In order to know the differences between the submucosal glands and the goblet cells of the supraglottic mucosa, a lectin histochemistry study was performed in 4 larynx of hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). The results show a strong reactivity to HPA and N-WGA lectins in the submucosal glands. Also reactivity to N-PNA and UEA-1 was present in the submucous glands but not in the goblet cells.

We describe a typical case of eosinophilic ulcer of the oral mucosa (EUOM) after an adverse reaction to carbamazepine, in a manic-depressive patient. This case may be suggestive of other etiologic factors for the EUOM, different to traumas.

A histochemical study with lectins of the olfactory epithelium of 5 Wistar rats was performed. This neuro-epithelium cover the postero-superior part of the nasal cavity and the medial part of the vomeronasal organon. There are numerous Bowman's glands in the olfactory epithelium, besides the sensory cells. These glandulae dye as well with PAS.AB, the same as the mucosal layer over the epithelium, which show its composition on sialo-sulfomucines. The mucous layer over the olfactory epithelium shows a great reactivity to WGA, moderate to PNA and Con-A and weak to SBA. On the other hand Bowman's glands show an intense reactivity to PNA and moderate to WGA, VEA-I and to Con-A.

A comparative study was made of endonasal dacryorhinostomy using either a 0 degree or 30 degrees rigid endoscope or a Zeiss operating microscope in 25 patients with chronic epiphora and complete stenosis of the nasolacrimal duct confirmed by dacryocystography. The success rate in both groups was similar (80%). Computed tomography is useful in post-traumatic cases.

An histologic study was performed by light microscopy of the rat nasal cavity. A neuroepithelial lining is found in the backside of the cavity and the medial portion of vomeronasal organ. A respiratory seudostratified epithel with a great deal of submucous glandulae cover the remainder of the cavity.

Histochemical studies done with lectins are helpful for differentiate between several carbohydrates and glycoproteins of cell structures. Mast cells predominate in the nasal polyps mucosa of these patients. Cytoplasmic granules of mastocyts reacted to all lectins employed but LTA.

An histochemistry study, with lectins, of the nasal mucous membrane of 5 Wistar rats, was performed by the AA. A pseudostratified respiratory epithelium with plenty submucosal glands cover the nasal cavity. Results show than goblet cells are reactive to DBA, PNA, SBA and WGA. The periciliary mucus layer is reactive to all lectins but DBA and LTA. Maxillary glands react to WGA and Con-A. Septal glands are also reactive to WGA and Con-A and furthermore to SBA.

We have performed an histochemical study with lectins of normal nasal mucosa in 6 patients admitted at Hospital because an abdominal pathology, and other 6 with nasal polyps. Results showed a similar reactivity to lectins of excretory duct cells of seromucous glandulae of basement membrane of normal nasal mucosa and the analogous cells of the nasal polyps mucosa.

We have performed an histochemical study with lectins of the normal nasal mucosa of 6 patients. These patients were admitted at the Hospital for abdominal surgery. A wide biopsy was taken of the inferior nasal turbinate mucosa. The results show a different reactivity between the serous and mucous cells of the submucosal glands and with the goblet cells. We have not found reactivity to DBA, SBA and LTA lectins.

We have performed, with light microscope, a study about the distribution and morphology of the subepithelial glands of the hamster's larynx. The results are: at the base of the tongue the great deal of the glands are mucous, at the epiglottic base seromucous and at the subglottic space (at the level of cricoid cartilage) serous.

A rare case of vascular leiomyoma of the inferior nasal turbinate in a diabetic patient is presented. Local excision was performed under endoscopic control. There have not been signs of recurrence after 2 years follow-up.

A case laryngeal tuberculosis with atypical presentation simulating epiglottitis is presented. The topic is reviewed and discussed.

The differences between the submucosal glands and globet cells of the subglottic mucosa were studied by lectin immunohistochemistry in 4 larynxes of Syrian golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). Submucosal glands showed intense reactivity to HPA, N-WGA and N-PNA and reactivity to PNA, UES-I, and ConA, but globet cells showed no reactivity.

A case of acute bilateral vocal cord paralysis in adduction of an elderly woman with multisystem atrophy is reported. Emergency tracheotomy was performed.

Inferior nasoantral windows, with and without radical surgical removal of the maxillary sinus mucosa, were studied in ten New Zealand white rabbits. Surgical removal of the mucosa and the Caldwell-Luc operation were performed. After three months, the sinus cavity was smaller, the medial wall was retracted and the inner curtain was disturbed, and small antrostomies had closed.

Primary laryngeal actinomycosis is rare. The case of a woman with diabetes that presented with a 2-month history of hoarseness and cough is reported. The literature is reviewed and the clinical features and histology of laryngeal actinomycosis are discussed.

The effect of inferior nasoantral windows on mucociliary clearance, with or without radical surgical removal of the maxillary sinus mucosa, was evaluated in five New Zealand white rabbits. Mucociliary clearance was analyzed using India ink as a marker and observing its distribution and flow rate. Partial and radical surgical removal of the mucosa, nasoantral windows, and the Caldwell-Luc operation were performed and mucociliary transport was studied. After three months, mucociliary clearance was conserved after partial resection of the sinus mucosa and absent after radical mucosal resection.

We described 2 cases of pleomorphic adenoma as parapharyngeal masses, one of the deep lobule of the parotid gland and the other one in palatine accessory salivary glands. After computed tomography (CAT) we made the anatomopathological diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma with fine needle aspiration. We discuss about the role of CAT in diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma occupying the parapharyngeal space.

Histochemical study done with lectins is useful in order to differentiate between several carbohydrates from glycoproteins and glycolipides present in cellular membranes. Plasma cells and eosinophils are very frequent findings in nose mucous of patients with nasal polyposis. Histochemistry with lectins of plasma cells show a reactivity of the cellular cytoplasma to ConA while the external cellular membrane stains with PNA.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KF) is a new and uncommon malady of unknown etiology, first described in Japan. Clinically runs with neck adenopathies no larger than 2 cm diameter. Young women are more frequently affected. Main features are fever and nocturnal swelling in half of cases. Laboratory findings are not diagnostically helpful and positive diagnosis is only reliable upon ganglion's histology. Be unaware of this sickness can arise confusion with a malignant lymphoma. The illness is harmless and autolimited in a few months term. We report a new case of KF disease, diagnosed through excision biopsy, after a previous needle biopsy had awakened one's suspicion about a non Hodgkin lymphoma.

In ten albino New Zealand rabbits we studied in the regenerated mucosa of the maxillary sinus what happens after three months of radical removal of sinus mucosa. The study was realized by light and electronic microscopy, with special attention to the plasma cells around the submucosal glands. There is an increased of plasma cells, in a proportion of 10:1.

A macroscopic study and with light microscopy as well is performed in the larynx of 4 hamsters. Morphology of hamster's larynx is described. Transitional epithelium is found out on the epiglottis base and caudally to the vocal cords. Hamster's larynx may be a good model for experimental study of changes during carcinogenesis.

Lymphoepithelial cysts of the parotid gland are frequently associated with HIV disease. We describe a case of a patient positive for HIV antibodies, stade A2, and extracapsular, bilateral and symmetric lymphoepithelial cysts of the parotid. The diagnosis was achieved by biopsy following a cervicotomy. A prior needle-biopsy procedure was disappointing. Literature review and discussion about the source and envolvement of those cysts linked to HIV-infection.

A comparative histochemical study of the lectins was made in the normal nasal mucosa of 6 patients admitted for abdominal disease and in the nasal mucosa of 6 patients with nasal polyposis. The results showed a similar reactivity to lectins by the cells of seromucosal glands of the lamina propria in both normal nasal mucosa and the mucosa of nasal polyps.

Glycoproteins and glycolipids play an important role in cellular biological specificity. The use of lectins as histochemical probes may be useful in studying the nasal mucosa. Eosinophils are a common finding in the nasal mucosa of patients with nasal polyposis. Histocytochemistry of eosinophils in the nasal mucosa of such patients revealed reactivity to all lectins used in this study except LTA. This suggests that alpha-L-fucose was not present in the eosinophils of the nasal mucosa of patients with nasal polyposis and asthma.

In 10 albino New Zealand rabbits, a study was made of the regeneration of the hair cells in the maxillary sinus mucosa three months after removing the sinus mucosa. Using optical microscopy and transmission and scanning electron microscopy, basal and non-hair cells were studied as the probable origin of hair cells. The regenerated sinus mucosa showed areas of epithelium consisting only of a basement membrane and a layer of basal cells. Ultrastructurally, two types of basal cell were visible in the regenerated mucosa. The proportion of non-hair cells was greater than in normal mucosa.