Head and Neck ImagingNasal cycle
physiological cycle in which alternately one nasal cavity is functionally active while the opposite side is 'resting'. On cross-sectional imaging the
mucosa of mainly the inferior and middle nasal turbinate appears thicker than on the opposite side; a few hours later this mucosal swelling may have changed in location. The intensity and duration of the nasal cycle shows individual variation and is age dependent. Asymmetrical thickness of the conchal
mucosa is not to be taken as evidence of
inflammation.
RH