Nasenbereich

Nasenbereich, or nasal region in German, denotes the anatomical area surrounding the nose, including the external nose and the internal nasal cavity. It forms the anterior part of the upper respiratory tract and contains the structural and sensory elements related to breathing and olfaction.

External nose: The bony framework consists of the nasal bones and parts of the maxilla. The cartilaginous frame includes septal, upper lateral, and alar cartilages. The nasal pyramid bears the nostrils (nares) and skin with underlying muscles and glands.

Internal nasal cavity: The cavity is divided by the nasal septum into two halves. It is lined mainly by respiratory mucosa, with specialized olfactory epithelium in the superior region. Turbinates (conchae) project from the lateral walls to create meatuses and increase surface area. The choanae connect the nasal cavity with the nasopharynx, and openings exist for the paranasal sinuses and the nasolacrimal duct.

Functions: The nasal region conditions the inhaled air by warming, humidifying, and filtering it, aided by mucociliary clearance and mucus production. It also houses the sense of smell in the olfactory region and participates in immune defense through mucosal barriers.

Innervation and blood supply: Sensory innervation is provided by branches of the trigeminal nerve for general sensation, while the olfactory nerve (CN I) mediates smell. Blood supply comes from branches of the facial, maxillary, and ophthalmic arteries, with venous drainage to the facial vein and pterygoid venous plexus.

Clinical notes: Epistaxis commonly occurs at Kiesselbach’s area on the anterior septum. Deviated septum, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, and chronic rhinosinusitis can lead to obstruction. The nasal region also serves as the drainage conduit for the paranasal sinuses and the nasolacrimal duct.

Development and variation: The nasal region shows considerable anatomical variation and is a common focus in ENT surgery, imaging, and diagnostics.