Nasal lavage samples from 40 subjects at one insectory and 23 from a second insectory were collected and prepared for analysis in such a manner. Tumor necrosis factor could not be detected in any of the samples. A nasal lavage technique for animal models has also been developed in our laboratory to complement the human studies. Nasal lavage in the animal models have also demonstrated that the nose may be useful as an environmental sampler for exposures such as fiberglass and bedding. Recent exposure history of a worker that is more reliable than air samples can also be obtained because sampling from the nose allows for personal habits such as inconsistent use or misuse of respiratory protection.
Nasal lavage is a well-tolerated technique, applicable to both field and laboratory studies.
It can provide information concerning both the health status and recent exposure history of a worker.