Histopathologic Changes in Nasal Mucosa of Rat with Benzalkonium Chloride

Cho, Jin Hee; Kwun, Yong Sig; Lee, Nam Soo; Won, Yu Sung; Yoon, He Ro; Suh, Byung Do

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Benzalkonium Chloride (BZC) is one of the most often used preservatives that has strong germicidal effect. Not only is it used for nasal drops, but also for eye drops and cosmetics. However, there have been many reports that lesions such as dermatitis and conjunctivitis are considered the results of irritation induced by BZC. We evaluated the histological changes after long-term administration of BZC on rat nasal respiratory mucosa. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We divided 40 BZC treated animals into 4 groups. First group received low-concentrated BZC solution which is commonly used for nasal sprays. Second group received high-concentrated BZC solution which is reported to induce dermatitis in human. Third and Fourth group received steroid mixed in the BZC solutions of low and high concentrations, respectively. Control group was administrated with normal saline. After 1, 2, and 4 weeks of topical administration in each group, the symptomatic and histological changes with H&E stain were observed.
RESULTS
Sneezing and nose rubbing with forelegs were observed in all subgroups on the 5th day of treatment. The BZC induced lesions, including glandular formation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and edematous changes. The symptomatic and histological changes were pronounced when the duration of BZC administration was increased. Similar results were observed in groups that received steroid mixed in the BZC solution.
CONCLUSION
We found that even low concentration of BZC preservative can cause nasal lesions. Thus, there is a strong need to develope a preservative that can be used safely.