Anterior nares


Anterior nares are the external portion of the nose. The anterior nares open into the nasal cavity and allow the inhalation and exhalation of air. Each is an oval opening that measures about 1.5 cm anteroposteriorly and about 1 cm in diameter.

Common Infections

The anterior nares are commonly infected by Staphylococcus aureus which may contribute to dermatitic skin lesions in patients with atopic dermatitis. The anterior nares can act as a colonizing point from which the infection can spread. This can be particularly troublesome if the strain is an antibiotic resistant strain. MRSA has become particularly widespread in hospitals and is commonly considered a superbug. For more information on symptoms and treatment see MRSA.