Nasopharynx

Nasopharynx is the upper part of the pharynx, connecting with the nasal cavity above and the throat below. It's a crucial part of the body's respiratory and digestive systems.

Anatomy

The nasopharynx is located above the soft part of the roof of the mouth (also known as the soft palate) and behind the nose. It's the part of the pharynx that connects the nasal cavity to the larynx and esophagus. The nasopharynx is lined with a mucous membrane that helps to keep the nose moist and warm, and it also contains the adenoids, which are part of the immune system.

Function

The primary function of the nasopharynx is to serve as a passageway for air from the nose to the throat and lungs. It also plays a role in the body's immune system, as the adenoids located in the nasopharynx produce white blood cells to help fight infection.

Diseases and Conditions

There are several diseases and conditions that can affect the nasopharynx. These include nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a type of cancer that is relatively rare in most parts of the world but more common in certain areas of East Asia. Other conditions include adenoid hypertrophy, which is an enlargement of the adenoids, and nasopharyngitis, which is inflammation of the nasopharynx.

Treatment

Treatment for conditions affecting the nasopharynx depends on the specific condition and its severity. For example, nasopharyngeal carcinoma is typically treated with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of the two. Adenoid hypertrophy may be treated with medication or, in some cases, surgery to remove the adenoids.

See Also

• Pharynx
• Nose
• Throat
• Adenoids
• Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
• Adenoid hypertrophy
• Nasopharyngitis

Nasopharynx Resources
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