[The effect of air pollution on the microbial colonization of the palatine tonsils].

The prevalence of some facultatively pathogenic microorganisms in the tonsillar flora was studied in 10-years old children living in areas with different grades of air pollution during the years 1984-1986. Samples were examined for beta-hemolytic Streptococci, Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp., Candida spp. and molds. Colonization by these microorganisms occurred more frequently in highly polluted towns (Frankfurt and Wiesbaden) than in less polluted areas (Freiburg and Starnberg). It is supposed that alteration of immune response or other defense mechanisms induced by some environmental pollutants enhance colonization by facultatively pathogenic bacteria and fungi.