We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Does the use of continuous positive airway pressure devices pose a risk of microplastic exposure to the upper airway? A pilot study
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers tested whether CPAP sleep apnea machines expose users to more inhaled microplastics by analyzing nasal fluid from 42 patients, finding no significant difference in total microplastic counts between CPAP users and non-users — though higher microplastic levels were associated with elevated inflammatory markers in the upper airways.
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants that have raised growing concerns about their potential impact on human health. Components used in continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices may degrade into MPs, which could be inhaled during therapy. Deposits of MPs on mucosal surfaces may cause mechanical or chemical irritation, including the release of toxic compounds that stimulate cytokine production. This study aimed to assess whether patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who regularly use CPAP are exposed to higher levels of inhaled MPs compared to those who have not initiated CPAP therapy. We also explored associations between inhaled MPs and inflammatory biomarkers in the upper airways. Nasal lavage fluid samples from 42 patients with OSA (21 CPAP users, and 21 non-users, all without signs or symptoms of nasal inflammation) were analyzed for MPs and inflammatory markers. MPs were detected in all samples, with no significant difference in total MP counts between groups ( p = 0.68). Polyethylene and polyamide were the predominant polymers recovered in both groups (around ≥ 80%). Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) was the only one of 15 identified polymers to show higher concentration in the CPAP group ( p = 0.003). Total MPs counts were positively associated with all cytokines, with Interleukin-1 beta and Interleukin-6 showing the strongest associations. In this pilot study, regular CPAP use does not appear to associate with an increase in inhaled microplastic levels in patients with OSA. However, inhaled microplastics were positively associated with elevated inflammatory biomarkers in the upper airways. Current Knowledge : Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive environmental pollutants that can accumulate in human tissues, raising health concerns. Given that CPAP devices may degrade into MPs, daily CPAP therapy may expose patients’ airways to MP accumulation and possibly inflammation. Study Impact : This pioneering study found that regular CPAP use does not appear to elevate inhaled MP levels in the upper airway. However, it revealed a significant positive association between inhaled MPs and elevated inflammatory biomarkers in the upper airways, pointing to potential health implications of MPs. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s44470-025-00021-3.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics and airway inflammatory profile in obstructive sleep apnea
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers analyzed nasal lavage samples from 42 obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients — half using CPAP therapy — and measured microplastic content and inflammation markers. CPAP users had higher MP levels in nasal lavage fluid, and MP presence correlated with airway inflammatory markers, suggesting CPAP therapy may increase microplastic exposure in the upper airways.
Nasal lavage technique reveals regular inhalation exposure of microplastics, not associated from face mask use
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers used nasal lavage, a technique that rinses the nasal cavity, to measure microplastics that people inhale during normal daily activities. They found an average of about 28 microplastic particles per sample across all participants, with eight different polymer types detected. Notably, the study found no significant difference in microplastic levels between different types of face masks, suggesting that everyday environmental exposure is the primary source of inhaled microplastics rather than mask materials.
Microplastics in the Human Nasal Cavity and Upper Airway: Emerging Evidence and Rhinologic Implications
AI summary Read the abstract
This review pulls together early research showing that tiny plastic particles (microplastics) are turning up not just in our lungs, but in our noses too—including in tissue from people with sinus conditions and allergies, and even in the brain's smell-processing center. Some everyday items like nasal rinse bottles and CPAP machines for sleep apnea may be adding to this exposure, which matters because scientists are still trying to figure out whether these particles contribute to nasal and sinus problems. The research is still in early stages, but it's a reminder to pay attention to what materials touch our airways every day.
Assessment of microplastic exposure in nasal lavage fluid and the influence of face masks
AI summary Read the abstract
This study measured microplastics in nasal fluid from college students and found that wearing surgical masks actually increased microplastic exposure compared to no mask or cotton masks. Surgical masks released polycarbonate particles, and longer wear times led to higher microplastic levels. The findings suggest that while masks protect against airborne pathogens, they may be an overlooked source of microplastic inhalation.
Micro‐ and Nanoplastic Toxicity in Upper Respiratory Tract: A Scoping Review
AI summary Read the abstract
This scoping review found that both exposed and unexposed humans have microplastics and nanoplastics detectable in nasal tissue and fluids, with mask wearing and old nasal lavage devices contributing to deposition, and experimental studies suggesting inflammatory tissue changes from upper respiratory tract NMP accumulation.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.