The Kiesselbach's plexus (Little's area) on the nasal septum is formed by anastomoses of which set of vessels?
- A Anterior ethmoidal artery + posterior ethmoidal artery only
- B Anterior ethmoidal artery, sphenopalatine artery, superior labial artery, and greater palatine artery ✓
- C Posterior ethmoidal artery + posterior nasal artery only
- D Internal carotid branches only
Correct answer: B. Anterior ethmoidal artery, sphenopalatine artery, superior labial artery, and greater palatine artery
Explanation
Kiesselbach's plexus on the anteroinferior nasal septum is supplied by four vessels: (1) anterior ethmoidal artery (from ICA via ophthalmic artery), (2) sphenopalatine artery (from ECA via maxillary artery), (3) superior labial artery (from ECA via facial artery), and (4) greater palatine artery (from ECA). It has contributions from both ICA and ECA, which explains why epistaxis from this area responds to local pressure. This knowledge is also important when planning septal surgery.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.