Piriform aperture

Piriform aperture is a term used in anatomy to describe the anterior nasal aperture, which is pear-shaped, hence the name 'piriform', derived from the Latin words 'pirum' (pear) and 'forma' (shape). It is the opening in the skull where the nose and its cavities are located.

Etymology

The term 'piriform aperture' is derived from the Latin words 'pirum', meaning pear, and 'forma', meaning shape. This is due to the pear-like shape of the anterior nasal aperture.

Anatomy

The piriform aperture is the anterior opening of the nasal cavity. It is bounded by the nasal bone superiorly, and by the maxilla on either side. The shape of the piriform aperture is significant as it determines the shape of the nose and the nasal airway.

The piriform aperture is closely related to the nasal septum, which divides the nasal cavity into two. The size and shape of the piriform aperture can be affected by deviations of the nasal septum.

Clinical significance

The size of the piriform aperture is of clinical significance. A narrow piriform aperture can cause nasal obstruction, leading to difficulty in breathing. This can be corrected surgically by a procedure known as piriform aperture enlargement.

In forensic medicine, the piriform aperture is used to determine the sex and race of a skull. The shape and size of the piriform aperture vary among different races and between the two sexes.

Related terms

• Nasal bone
• Maxilla
• Nasal septum
• Nasal obstruction

See also

• Nasal cavity
• Forensic anthropology

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Piriform_aperture

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  Human skull with piriform aperture circled

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  Michael Sweerts - self portrait with a skull c.1660