The correct spelling of the term "turbinated body" is often a source of confusion for many people. The word is spelled with two "i"s, not one. The phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈtərbəneɪtɪd ˈbɒdi/. The first syllable is pronounced as "turb" with a schwa sound at the end, followed by the syllable "i-nate" with a long "i" sound, and the last syllable is pronounced as "ted" with a schwa sound at the end. The term refers to the bony structures in the nasal cavity that help to filter and warm the air we breathe.
The term "turbinated body" refers to a structure located in the nasal cavity called the nasal concha or turbinate. The turbinated bodies are three curved, bony structures that are covered with a thin, mucous membrane. They are positioned on the lateral walls of the nasal cavity, above the nasal floor.
These structures, also known as nasal turbinates or nasal conchae, consist of the superior, middle, and inferior nasal conchae. Each turbinate has a unique shape, with the superior and middle turbinates being smaller and flatter compared to the larger, scroll-shaped inferior turbinate.
The primary function of the turbinated bodies is to help filter, humidify, and warm the inhaled air before it reaches the lungs. Their shape and position help create turbulence in the airflow, increasing the contact between the air and the nasal mucosa. The mucous membrane that lines the turbinates contains tiny blood vessels that help moisturize and warm the air, while also trapping dust, allergens, and other particles. This filtration process helps to protect the respiratory system from potential harm.
In addition to their role in respiratory function, the turbinated bodies also play a crucial role in the sense of smell. They contain specialized olfactory epithelium, which houses the receptors responsible for detecting and interpreting odors.
Overall, the turbinated bodies are vital structures within the nasal cavity that contribute to the efficient and optimal functioning of the respiratory system.
Turbinal, the t. bone or concha with its covering of mucous membrane and other soft parts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "turbinated" comes from the Latin word "turbo" meaning "spinning top" or "whirlwind". It is derived from the Greek word "tyrbein" which also means "to spin". "Turbo" is often used to describe something that is spiral or whirling in shape, such as a spinning top or vortex. The term "turbinated body" refers to a structure in the nasal cavity called the nasal concha or turbinate, which has a convoluted, spiral shape resembling a turbined or whirling structure.