[Ultrastructure of surfactant-like multilamellar bodies in the human nose].

OBJECTIVE

To study the distribution of the surfactant-like multilamellar bodies in the human nose.

METHODS

Fourteen specimens obtained from the inferior turbinate, middle turbinate, uncinate process and maxillary sinus were examined under the electron microscope.

RESULTS

The surfactant-like multilamellar bodies were identified in the epithelium on the lateral wall and maxillary sinus.

CONCLUSION

The existence of surfactant-like multilamellar bodies in the human lateral nasal wall and maxillary sinus were confirmed. It is necessary to have further study for its effect in the nose both physiologically and pharmacologically.