[Clinicocytological assessment of nasal mucosa and buccal epithelium in coal miners].

The aim of the study was cytomorphological examination of the cells of nasal mucosa and buccal epithelium in coal miners. Two groups of miners were examined: non-exposed and exposed to industrial dust. It was found that coal dust inhalation provokes dystrophic processes in the upper airways, impairs intracellular regeneration resulting in atrophic changes in nasal mucosa epithelium. Morphometry (rhinocytogram) with estimation of cell composition in the upper airways of miners evaluates a cleaning function and respiratory system defense in long-term exposure of the miners to occupational dust hazards.