Nasal anatomy
Read the topic background here, then explore the labeled visual and structured learning explanations on this page.
Read explanation on this page ↓ See diagram ↓Nose — on-site reading
This reference extract addresses Nose, a related subject. It does not cover every part of Nasal anatomy.. The article introduction is reproduced here, so you do not need to leave MedAtlas to read it. It may not match the latest official medical guidance.
A nose is a sensory organ and respiratory structure in vertebrates. It consists of a nasal cavity inside the head, and an external nose on the face. The external nose houses the nostrils, or nares, a pair of tubes providing airflow through the nose for respiration. Where the nostrils pass through the nasal cavity they widen, are known as nasal fossae, and contain turbinates and olfactory mucosa. The nasal cavity also connects to the paranasal sinuses (dead-end air cavities for pressure buffering and humidification). From the nasal cavity, the nostrils continue into the pharynx, a switch track valve connecting the respiratory and digestive systems.
In humans, the nose is located centrally on the face and serves as an alternative respiratory passage especially during suckling for infants.
The protruding nose that is completely separate from the mouth part is a characteristic found only in therian mammals. It has been theorized that this unique mammalian nose evolved from the anterior part of the upper jaw of the reptilian-like ancestors (synapsids).
How this connects to Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
The ear, nose and throat form connected sensory and airway systems. Sound conduction, inner-ear transduction, nasal airflow, swallowing and laryngeal function depend on separate structures and cranial nerves, so similar symptoms can arise from different anatomical locations.
Text credit: Wikipedia contributors, “Nose”, original article · authors & revision history · CC BY-SA 4.0. Unmodified opening extract, accessed 24 September 2026. This Wikipedia-derived section is provided under CC BY-SA 4.0; the independent MedAtlas notes and design are separate works.
Nasal anatomy · visual study map
Scalable vector illustration. Labeled conceptual map, not a precise anatomical, histological or diagnostic image.The wording in this learning map is adapted from the attributed Wikipedia background section below (CC BY-SA 4.0).
What the underlying subject studies
ENT studies the connected anatomy of hearing, balance, upper airway, nose, pharynx and larynx. Structure determines airflow, sound transmission, swallowing and voice production.
How mechanisms and evidence connect
Symptoms can originate at several levels of the auditory, vestibular or aerodigestive system. The examination site, cranial nerves and anatomical compartments help organize the differential.
How to develop a sound explanation
Trace a normal sensory or air passage through its structures, then compare how a broad category of disturbance might interrupt the pathway. Procedure and airway guidance requires specialized training.
References and verification (optional)
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NMC official CBME Curriculum 2024 and current regulations index ↗