An Enquiry on the Morphological Characteristics and Possible Changes with Age in the Olfactory Region of Man

Abstract

Methods used in this enquiry are described; the significance of their combined use in investigational procedure is discussed. Surface studies show the relationship of the peripheral olfactory neurones to a mosaic formed by the free surfaces of the supporting cells. A marginal ring in the olfactory vesicle is identified and it is shown to consist of basal bodies that give rise to olfactory cilia. Pathological alterations of the olfactory cells are observed and their extent may be assessed by these methods. The normal cellular pattern and zonal distribution of the nuclei of the supporting and sensory cells of the olfactory epithelium is demonstrated in man and it is shown to be lost with age. Other characteristics relating to structure, vascularity and pigmentation of the olfactory epithelium are described. Observations on the mucosal changes with age are recorded.