Sekretolyse

Sekretolyse, also known as secretolysis, is the physiological process and therapeutic approach of breaking down and liquefying viscous secretions produced by mucous membranes, particularly in the respiratory tract, to facilitate their clearance. The term derives from Latin secretio for secretion and Greek lysis for dissolution.

In healthy airways, mucus is produced continuously and cleared by the mucociliary transport system. In inflammatory or infectious diseases, mucus can become thicker and more adhesive, forming plugs that impair ventilation. Sekretolyse aims to reduce viscosity and adhesiveness, enabling easier expectoration and improving airway patency. It can occur endogenously through hydration, changes in mucus composition, and ciliary activity, or be enhanced pharmacologically.

Pharmacological secretolytics (mucolytics) include thiol-containing agents such as N-acetylcysteine and carbocisteine, which disrupt mucin cross-links; ambroxol, which can modulate mucus production and support ciliaries function; and other formulations that increase hydration or alter mucus rheology. Expectorants and chest physiotherapy are often used in combination to promote mucus clearance.

Clinical use covers chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, and acute bronchopulmonary infections where thick secretions complicate breathing. Side effects may include gastrointestinal upset and, in susceptible individuals, bronchospasm. Sekretolyse remains a component of multimodal airway clearance strategies and is evaluated based on disease severity and tolerability.