Distribution of mast cells in the subepithelial layer of cholesteatoma matrix and adhesive eardrum

Abstract

Distribution of mast cells in the subepithelial layer of cholesteatoma matrix and adhesive eardrum were studied to elucidate the role of mast cells in chronic otitis media. The sections were stained with alcian blue for 16 hours following pretreatment with 0.7N hydrochloric acid solution. The number of mast cells per mm2 ranged from 0 to 60.9, with the mean ± standard error being 20.5±3.6 cells/mm² in all cases (n=17), 28.0±4.8cells/mm² in the cholesteatoma matrices (n=9) and 12.1±3.8cells/mm² in-the adherent eardrums (n=8). The difference in mast cell counts between the cholesteatoma matrices and the adherent eardrums was significant (p<0.05). The number of mast cells tended to be high in specimens that were closely associated with granulation tissue. Obstruction of the mastoid cavity due to cholesteatoma may enhance mast cell degranulation due to hypoxic conditions when the ventilation route is blocked. Mast cells seem to be involved in the pathogenesis or development of cholesteatoma.