Nasal cavity. Three-dimensional computed tomo- graphy (CT) scan of the nasal cavity. At upper left (and partially obscured at upper right), part of th

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Nasal cavity. Three-dimensional computed tomo- graphy (CT) scan of the nasal cavity. At upper left (and partially obscured at upper right), part of the ridge-like conchae can be seen. These are a group of three plates which are covered in nerves responsible for the sense of smell. The nasal cavity is lined with a mucous membrane which warms, moistens and filters the air, and prevents airborne particles and microorganisms entering the lungs. CT scans use X-rays to create slice images through the body, which can be combined to give this 3-D endoscopic view. This virtual endoscopy allows study of the body's internal structures without using invasive techniques.

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Size: 4809px × 3780px
Photo credit: © PASCAL GOETGHELUCK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: 3-, anatomy, body, concha, conchae, ct, endoscope, human, nose, olfaction, olfactory, scan, sense, sinus, smell, virtual