Septal body according to standard ent textbook

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Septal Swell Body (Nasal Septal Swell Body)

Source: Scott-Brown's Otorhinolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Vol. 1, Chapter 87 - Nasal Septum

Definition and Location

The nasal septal swell body (also called the septal body) is a widened region of the anterior nasal septum located anterior to the middle turbinate at the internal nasal valve.

Histology

Histological analysis of the septal swell body tissue shows:

An increased amount of venous sinusoids
Fewer glandular elements compared to the adjacent septal mucosa

This is the key distinguishing feature - the tissue composition is different from the surrounding mucosa.

Function

The high proportion of venous sinusoids within the septal swell body gives it the capacity to alter nasal airflow in a manner similar to the inferior turbinate. It is believed to act as an erectile tissue structure that helps regulate airflow through the nasal valve region.

Clinical / Radiological Appearance

On coronal CT imaging, the septal swell body appears as a soft tissue widening of the anterior septum at the level of the internal nasal valve (arrow in the image below):

Coronal CT showing the septal swell body (white arrow) - a widening of the anterior nasal septum at the internal nasal valve level

Figure 87.11 - Coronal CT of septal swell body (arrow), Scott-Brown's Otorhinolaryngology, Vol. 1

Clinical Significance

The septal swell body can mimic or contribute to nasal obstruction, particularly at the internal nasal valve
It may be misidentified as a septal deviation or turbinate hypertrophy on endoscopy or CT
Understanding its presence is important during septoplasty and rhinoplasty planning to avoid unnecessary resection
Its erectile nature means it responds to topical decongestants

Summary Table

Feature	Detail
Location	Anterior nasal septum, at the internal nasal valve
Landmark	Anterior to the middle turbinate
Histology	Rich in venous sinusoids; fewer glands than adjacent mucosa
Function	Regulates nasal airflow (similar to inferior turbinate)
Clinical relevance	Can cause/contribute to nasal obstruction; important landmark in septal surgery

Scott-Brown's Otorhinolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Vol. 1, p. 1014 (Chapter 87, Nasal Septum)

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