Superior nasal concha

The Superior Nasal Concha is a part of the human nasal anatomy. It is one of the three pairs of conchae in the nose. Conchae are small, narrow, and curled shelves of bone that protrude into the nasal airway. They are named for their shell-like shape.

Superior, middle and inferior nasal conchae. The superior nasal concha is at the top.

Structure

The superior nasal concha is the smallest and the highest located of the three nasal conchae. It is a part of the ethmoid bone, which is responsible for separating the nasal cavity from the brain and for forming the medial wall of the eye sockets.

Function

The primary function of the superior nasal concha is to regulate and direct airflow through the nasal cavity. The conchae increase the surface area of the nasal cavity and create turbulence in the inhaled air. This turbulence helps to warm and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs.

Clinical significance

The superior nasal concha, like the other nasal conchae, can be involved in various nasal conditions. These include nasal polyps, sinusitis, and deviated septum. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct these conditions.

See also

• Inferior nasal concha
• Middle nasal concha
• Ethmoid bone
• Nasal cavity