Article Type
Article
Abstract
Background: Surfactant has been demonstrated biochemically and morphologically in the Eustachian tube. Exogenous surfactant administration in animal models of otitis media with effusion has shown beneficial effects. An up-to-date review of the role of surfactant in Eustachian tube physiology is warranted.
Materials and Methods: A search of the English language literature using PubMed, Medline and Ovid databases, as well as the Google search engine was conducted, under the headings (surfactant) and (Eustachian tube). Relevant articles were analysed.
Results: Surfactant lipids and proteins play an important role in the mucociliary clearance, mucosal immunity and mechanical properties of the Eustachian tube.
Conclusion: Application of exogenous surfactant in cases of otitis media with effusion represents a novel non-surgical modality to induce resolution of this condition. Studies in humans are awaited.
Keywords: Surfactant, Eustachian tube, Middle ear.
Recommended Citation
Effat KG.
Role of surfactant in Eustachian tube physiology: a review.
Pan Arab J. Rhinol.
2012;
2 : -.
Available at:
https://pajr.researchcommons.org/journal/vol2/iss2/9
