Comparative morphogenesis of nasal region in human and some mammals.

Abstract

Background . Comparative anatomical and embryological research has not lost its relevance in the wide field of human body structures and systems studying. Analysis of current scientific literature concludes that the problem of prenatal morphogenesis of the nasal cavity structures in comparative embryological aspect still remains unsolved. Objective . The aim of the study was to clarify specific structural features of nasal region structures during prenatal morphogenesis in human and some mammals. Materials and methods. Research was conducted on 75 specimens of human fetuses and embryos and 85 mammals’ specimens in different periods of prenatal development by using complex of morphological methods (anthropometry, morphometrics, microscopy, three-dimensional computer reconstruction and statistical analysis). Results . At the end of the fetal period of ontogenesis, nasal region in studied mammalian species acquires features of a definitive structure. It is surrounded by cartilaginous nasal capsule, to the exterior surface of which are adjacent dorsally - nasal and partly frontal bones, lateral - maxillary bones. Nasal cavity is delimited from the cranial cavity by cribriform plate of sphenoid, which consists of cartilage. Nasal cavity is divided into two halves by cartilaginous nasal septum, which aborally proceeds into cartilaginous skull base, dorsally – into the vault of nasal capsule. Ventral wall of nasal cavity consists of paraseptal cartilages and secondary bone palate. Conclusions . It was found that differences of nasal region structure in studied mammals were associated with form of nasal cavity, structure of secondary palate bone, number and developmental degree of nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses. This differences are caused by nutrition features, nature of dental armament, degree of brain development, intensity of respiration and animals’ conditions of existence. In humans lateral nasal gland is absent, however respiratory, olfactory and maxillary glands are well developed.