Which group of paranasal sinuses drains into the superior meatus of the nasal cavity?
- A Posterior ethmoidal air cells ✓
- B Anterior ethmoidal air cells
- C Maxillary sinus
- D Sphenoid sinus
Correct answer: A. Posterior ethmoidal air cells
Explanation
The posterior ethmoidal air cells open into the superior meatus, below the superior turbinate. The sphenoid sinus opens higher still, into the sphenoethmoidal recess above the superior turbinate, so option D is the classic trap here. Anterior ethmoids, maxillary and frontal sinuses all drain via the middle meatus through the ostiomeatal complex.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.