Nasion

Anatomical landmark on the human skull

Diagram of the human skull showing the location of the nasion

The nasion is an important anatomical landmark located on the human skull. It is the point where the frontal and two nasal bones meet, situated at the bridge of the nose. This point is often used in anthropometry and craniometry to measure various aspects of the skull and face.

Anatomy

The nasion is located at the intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones. It is a midline point that can be palpated on the living individual, making it a useful reference point in both clinical and anthropological contexts. The nasion is typically used as a reference in cephalometric analysis, which is a diagnostic tool in orthodontics and craniofacial surgery.

Clinical significance

In clinical practice, the nasion is used as a reference point for various measurements and procedures. It is often used in the assessment of facial symmetry and in the planning of surgical interventions involving the nasal and frontal regions. The nasion is also a key landmark in the assessment of cranial index and facial index, which are important in the study of human evolution and variation.

Anthropological importance

In anthropology, the nasion is used to study human skull shapes and to compare different populations. It is one of the standard landmarks used in craniometric studies, which help anthropologists understand the diversity and evolution of human populations. Measurements involving the nasion can provide insights into ancestry, genetic relationships, and adaptations to different environments.

Related pages

• Anthropometry
• Cephalometry
• Cranial index
• Facial index
• Orthodontics