Nasal Septal Swell Body: A Distinctive Structure in the Nasal Cavity

Objectives: The nasal septal swell body (NSB), also known as the nasal septal turbinate, is located in the anterior part of the nasal septum. This study is a narrative review of the existing knowledge on recent developments in NSB. Methods: A literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Ovid, and Cochrane Library databases. Google Scholar was used to access more extensive literature. The inclusion criteria were human studies published in English. The exclusion criteria were non-English language and animal studies. Results: Of the 345 articles that were initially obtained from 5 databases and Google Scholar, 28 were included in this review. There have been many names for NSBs in the past, which still have no unified terminology recognized by professionals. Pathological investigations revealed that NSB contains a certain amount of sinusoidal blood components. Nasal septal swell body is closely related to the internal nasal valve. Imaging studies have found that the size of NSB is associated with nasal diseases, and NSB hypertrophy can cause anatomic obstruction. In recent years, several procedures for NSB have been reported, and preliminary effectiveness has been achieved. However, the long-term outcomes of volume reduction techniques remain unproven. Conclusions: The NSB is a distinct anatomic structure that may contribute to nasal obstruction and may be reduced surgically with unclear long-term results. Although being investigated for over a century, the unique physiological roles of NSB are not yet fully understood. More evidence is needed to elucidate its physiological effects.

Automated summary

This narrative review provides an overview of the existing knowledge on nasal septal swell bodies (NSB), highlighting the lack of unified terminology, close relationship with the internal nasal valve, association with nasal diseases, and the potential for obstruction due to NSB hypertrophy. Surgical procedures for NSB have shown preliminary effectiveness, but long-term outcomes remain uncertain, emphasizing the need for more evidence to fully understand its physiological effects.