[Does summer smog damage the nasal mucosa and contribute to bacterial rhinitis?].

Smog in hot summers contains noxious agents resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels whose levels are highest in industrial areas. Reactions of the oxygen radical of ozone with sulfur dioxides, nitrous oxides, hydrocarbons and the water molecules of the nasal mucous membrane presumably support the formation of acids such as H2SO4 or HNO3 (from H2SO3 or HNO2 [3, 4]). Acid corrosion seems to damage the mucous membrane, leading to local erosions, bleeding, and necrotic changes. The collapsed local defense system and necrotic mucosa are an ideal culture medium for a wide spectrum of pathogenic bacteria. Main signs of tissue pathology are bleeding spots or pustules, nasal congestion, degenerative mucositis, pruritus, as well as epipharyngeal and pharyngeal irritation. Therapy is possible with topical or oral antibiotics. Prophylaxis includes avoiding touching the mucous membranes and reducing outdoor activity on hot summer days. Further clinical and scientific examination would be helpful in determining additional explanations.