Nasal Function and Evaluation

4.6.1 Discuss the mechanisms for the following nasal functions: respiratory airway, humidification and filtration of inspired air, olfaction, nasal resonance in speech, and defense against viral and bacterial pathogens.

4.6.2 Describe the sympathetic and parasympathetic supply to the nose and how it impacts submucosal vascular and glandular functions.

4.6.3 Describe the histology of respiratory epithelium. Where is it located in the nose? What other types of epithelium can be found in the nose? Where are these other types of epithelium located in the nasal cavity?

4.6.4 Describe normal mucociliary clearance. Discuss the role of nasomucociliary clearance, ciliary beat frequency and electron microscopy in the evaluation of normal mucociliary function.

4.6.5 What is primary ciliary dyskinesia? What is acquired (secondary) ciliary dyskinesia? Describe the normal ultra structure and function of cilia.

4.6.6 Describe the normal nasal cycle.

4.6.7 Where are the nasal valves? Can the nasal valves compensate for increased airway resistance? How? How can the competency of the nasal valve be assessed?

4.6.8 Does the subjective sensation of nasal obstruction correlate with objective measures of nasal patency? Describe any implications for surgical planning and informed consent.

4.6.9 Discuss the roles of acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry and nasal peak flow in the assessment of the nasal airway.

4.6.10 How is olfactory function assessed? Are there any important factors to consider when interpreting the results of olfactory function testing?

4.6.11 Describe the relevant signs and symptoms present with nasal obstruction. What are the differences seen in the clinical presentations of patients with fixed versus functional nasal obstruction?

4.6.12 Discuss radiographic work-up (benfits) of CT vs. MRI