Nasal concha

Detailed article on the nasal concha

Nasal Concha

The nasal concha, also known as the turbinates, are long, narrow, curled bone shelves that protrude into the nasal cavity. They are responsible for forcing inhaled air to flow in a steady, regular pattern around the largest possible surface of cilia and climate-controlling tissue. The nasal conchae are divided into three pairs: the superior, middle, and inferior conchae.

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Diagram of the nasal concha within the nasal cavity.

Anatomy

The nasal conchae are located on the lateral walls of the nasal cavity. Each concha is a thin, bony structure covered by a mucous membrane. The conchae are named based on their position within the nasal cavity:

Superior Nasal Concha

The superior nasal concha is the smallest of the three conchae. It is part of the ethmoid bone and is located high in the nasal cavity. The superior concha plays a role in the sense of smell as it is near the olfactory bulb.

Middle Nasal Concha

The middle nasal concha is also part of the ethmoid bone. It is larger than the superior concha and is involved in the drainage of the paranasal sinuses. The middle concha helps to regulate airflow and supports the function of the sinuses.

Inferior Nasal Concha

The inferior nasal concha is the largest and most independent of the conchae. Unlike the superior and middle conchae, it is a separate bone. The inferior concha is crucial for humidifying and filtering the air that is inhaled through the nose.

Function

The primary function of the nasal conchae is to increase the surface area of the nasal cavity, which enhances the warming, humidifying, and filtering of the air before it reaches the lungs. The conchae also help to direct airflow and support the function of the nasal mucosa.

Air Conditioning

As air passes over the conchae, it is warmed and humidified. This process is essential for protecting the delicate tissues of the lower respiratory tract from cold, dry air.

Filtration

The conchae, along with the nasal hairs and mucous membranes, trap dust, pollen, and other particles, preventing them from reaching the lungs.

Olfaction

The superior nasal concha is involved in the sense of smell. The olfactory receptors located in this region detect odor molecules, which are then processed by the brain.

Clinical Significance

The nasal conchae can be involved in various medical conditions. Nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis can all affect the conchae, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, and facial pain.

Turbinate Hypertrophy

Turbinate hypertrophy is a condition where the conchae become enlarged, often due to chronic inflammation or allergies. This can lead to nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing.

Surgical Intervention

In some cases, surgical procedures such as turbinate reduction may be necessary to alleviate symptoms caused by enlarged conchae.

Related Pages

• Nasal cavity
• Ethmoid bone
• Paranasal sinuses
• Olfactory system