HISTOLOGICAL STRUCTURE OF THE NASAL MUCOSA AND ITS PROTECTIVE FUNCTIONS

The nasal mucosa plays a crucial role in protecting the respiratory system by filtering, humidifying, and warming inhaled air. Its complex histological structure ensures effective defense against environmental particles, pathogens, and harmful agents. The aim of this study is to describe the histological organization of the nasal mucosa and to analyze its protective functions. The nasal mucosa consists of pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium, goblet cells, basal cells, and a highly vascularized connective tissue layer. These structures work together to maintain mucociliary clearance and local immune defense. Understanding the microscopic structure of the nasal mucosa is important for explaining the pathogenesis of inflammatory and infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract.