Nasal mucosal surface

The nasal mucosal surface is the tissue layer lining the inside of the nasal cavity, including both respiratory and, superiorly, olfactory regions[2][1][3][4][5]. The respiratory mucosa, the most extensive part, consists of pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium with goblet cells, beneath which lie the basement membrane, lamina propria, blood vessels, and mucous/seromucous glands[1][2][3][4][5]. This surface filters, warms, and humidifies inhaled air, traps airborne particles, and supports immune defense through mucus production that contains immunoglobulin A, lysozymes, and antimicrobial molecules[3][5]. The olfactory mucosa, in the upper nasal cavity, contains olfactory receptor neurons for the sense of smell[2][3]. The surface is a common site for infections and inflammation, such as in rhinitis and sinusitis[2]. While essential as a protective and functional barrier, the nasal mucosal surface is not a molecular therapeutic target but rather an anatomical substrate through which many respiratory drugs act.

Other names

Nasal mucosaRespiratory mucosa (when referring to nasal lining)Olfactory mucosa (specific region in nasal cavity)