NasopharynxNasopharynxThe nasopharynx is the part of the throat behind the nasal passage. It is connected to the ear by two openings found on each side of the nasopharynx. The nasopharynx filters the inhaled air to protect the body from airborne infectious agents and other potentially harmful particles. The nasopharynx histologically consists of three main layers:
The two main types of epithelium in the nasopharynx are squamous epithelium and respiratory epithelium. In this sample respiratory epithelium is shown. The lamina propria consists of loose connective tissue, intermixed with blood vessels and immune cells. The main component of submucosa is connective tissue but it also contains seromucous glands. The adventitia consists of connective tissue. Normal nasopharynxSection of a normal nasopharynx, stained with hematoxylin and eosin for contrast. NasopharynxOn microscopic examination, the nasopharynx is divided into three main layers:
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