Clinical perspectives on nasopharyngeal morphology in humans. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2022 Aug;305(8):2065-2074
Date
04/08/2022Pubmed ID
35388627Pubmed Central ID
PMC9527579DOI
10.1002/ar.24926Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85127585698 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 1 CitationAbstract
The nasopharynx is an integral component of the upper aerodigestive tract, whose morphologic features share an intimate relationship with a vast array of clinical, functional, and quality of life conditions related to contemporary humans. Its composite architecture and central location amidst the nasal cavity, pharyngotympanic tube, palate, and skull base bears implications for basic physiologic functions including breathing, vocalization, and alimentation. Over the course of evolution, morphological modifications of nasopharyngeal anatomy have occurred in genus Homo which serve to distinguish the human upper aerodigestive tract from that of other mammals. Understanding of these adaptive changes from both a comparative anatomy and clinical perspective offers insight into the unique blueprint which underpins many clinical pathologies currently encountered by anthropologists, scientists, and otorhinolaryngologists alike. This discussion intends to familiarize readers with the fundamental role that nasopharyngeal morphology plays in upper aerodigestive tract conditions, with consideration of its newfound clinical relevance in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Author List
Rohde R, Friedland DRAuthor
David R. Friedland MD Associate Director, Director, Chief, Professor in the Otolaryngology department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
AnimalsHominidae
Humans
Mammals
Nasopharynx
Pandemics
Quality of Life