Conchae are three bony, curved projections (superior, middle, and inferior conchae) that extend into the nasal cavity from the lateral walls.
Meatuses are the spaces between the conchae and the lateral walls of the nasal cavity. There are three meatuses, corresponding to the conchae:
* Superior meatus: Lies between the superior concha and the cribriform plate.
* Middle meatus: Lies between the middle concha and the ethmoid bone.
* Inferior meatus: Lies between the inferior concha and the floor of the nasal cavity.
Here's how they work together:
* Conchae create turbulence in the airflow through the nasal cavity, which helps warm, humidify, and filter the air we breathe.
* Meatuses provide spaces for the openings of the paranasal sinuses to drain into the nasal cavity.
Functions of conchae and meatuses:
* Air conditioning: Conchae and meatuses create turbulence in airflow, increasing contact time with the nasal mucosa, allowing for efficient warming and humidification of inhaled air.
* Filtering: The nasal mucosa lining the conchae and meatuses traps dust, pollen, and other particles, filtering the air we breathe.
* Drainage: The openings of the paranasal sinuses drain into the meatuses, preventing buildup of mucus and facilitating drainage.
* Sense of smell: The olfactory epithelium, responsible for our sense of smell, is located on the superior concha.
Clinical significance:
* Sinusitis: Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses can cause blockage of the sinus openings, leading to pain, pressure, and difficulty breathing.
* Nasal polyps: Benign growths in the nasal cavity can obstruct the meatuses, causing breathing difficulties.
* Deviated septum: A crooked nasal septum can obstruct one of the nasal cavities, leading to difficulty breathing and chronic sinusitis.
Understanding the anatomy of conchae and meatuses is crucial for diagnosing and treating various nasal and sinus conditions.