Detection and quantification of microplastics in cerumen

This study provides solid evidence of microplastic presence in human cerumen, suggesting a novel potential route of elimination from the human body. The high detection rate among patients and distinct characteristics of cerumen-borne MPs compared to controls imply genuine human accumulation rather than procedural contamination. Cerumen highlights a promising potential noninvasive bioindicator for assessing microplastic exposure. Further research in larger populations is essential to confirm these findings, elucidate mechanisms, identify polymer types, and explore potential health implications.