The majority of nosebleeds primarily originate from a network of blood vessels located in the front part of the nasal septum.
The Main Cause: Kiesselbach's Plexus
The Kiesselbach's plexus, also known as Little's area, is a highly vascularized region found in the anteroinferior part of the nasal septum. This area is a common site for nosebleeds (epistaxis) because it's formed by the convergence of several arteries, making it particularly vulnerable to trauma, dryness, and irritation.
Arteries Contributing to Kiesselbach's Plexus
Several key arteries contribute to the rich blood supply of Kiesselbach's plexus, making it the primary source of bleeding for most anterior nosebleeds. These arteries are branches of both the internal and external carotid artery systems.
Here are the arteries that form this crucial plexus:
| Artery Name | Origin (General) | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Anterior Ethmoid | Ophthalmic Artery | Supplies the superior and anterior septum |
| Posterior Ethmoid | Ophthalmic Artery | Supplies the superior and posterior septum |
| Greater Palatine | Maxillary Artery | Supplies the floor of the nasal cavity and septum |
| Sphenopalatine | Maxillary Artery | Major blood supply to the lateral nasal wall and septum |
| Superior Labial | Facial Artery | Supplies the anterior nasal septum (columella) |
(Note: While not explicitly listed in the provided reference's plexus definition, the Posterior Ethmoid artery is often considered part of the broader arterial supply to the nasal septum, and its involvement in nosebleeds can occur, though Kiesselbach's plexus specifically highlights the anterior contributors.)
Why Is This Area Prone to Bleeding?
- Location: Its prominent position at the front of the nose makes it susceptible to direct trauma, such as nose picking or impacts.
- Thin Mucosa: The lining over this area is thin, offering less protection to the underlying vessels.
- Airflow: It's a primary point of airflow, making it prone to drying out, especially in arid climates or with low humidity, which can lead to cracking and bleeding.
- Vulnerability: The superficial location of these interconnected arteries makes them fragile and easily ruptured.
Understanding the arteries that form Kiesselbach's plexus is crucial for both preventing and managing nosebleeds, as interventions often target this specific area. For more detailed information on nosebleeds, you can refer to reputable medical sources like Cleveland Clinic's article on Epistaxis (Nosebleed) my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13464-epistaxis-nosebleed.
