Nasal meatus

Nasal meatus is a term used in anatomy to refer to one of the three grooves located in the nasal cavity. These grooves are named the superior, middle, and inferior nasal meatus. They are separated by the nasal concha or turbinates, which are long, narrow, curled shelf of bone that protrudes into the breathing passage of the nose.

Structure

The nasal meatus is divided into three sections: the superior, middle, and inferior meatus. Each meatus is named for the nasal concha above it.

• The superior nasal meatus is the smallest and most superiorly located of the three nasal meatuses. It is located below the superior nasal concha.
• The middle nasal meatus is located below the middle nasal concha.
• The inferior nasal meatus is the largest and most inferiorly located of the three nasal meatuses. It is located below the inferior nasal concha.

Function

The nasal meatus plays a crucial role in the process of respiration. It helps to warm, moisturize, and filter the air before it reaches the lungs. The meatus also helps to increase the surface area of the nasal cavity, which enhances the sense of smell.

Clinical significance

Conditions that can affect the nasal meatus include sinusitis, nasal polyps, and deviated septum. These conditions can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and loss of smell.

See also

• Nasal concha
• Nasal cavity
• Respiration (physiology)

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