Conchae
Fleshy lobes in the nasal cavity which increase its surface area
Conchae, also known as nasal conchae or turbinate bones, are bony structures located inside the nasal cavity. There are three pairs of conchae: superior, middle, and inferior. These structures are covered with soft tissues and play an important role in filtering, warming, and humidifying the air that enters the nose before it reaches the lungs.
Conchae increase the surface area of the nasal cavity and create turbulence in the airflow, allowing for efficient filtration of particles and debris from the air. They also help to direct the flow of air towards the olfactory receptors, which are responsible for our sense of smell.
In addition to their role in respiration, conchae also have a role in the regulation of nasal blood flow. The outer layer of the conchae contains erectile tissue that can swell or shrink, controlling the opening and closing of blood vessels. This helps to regulate the temperature of the air entering the nose and prevent excess moisture loss from the body.
Overall, conchae play a vital role in respiratory and olfactory processes and help to maintain the proper function of the nasal cavity.
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