AnatoMemory

Bone

Ethmoid bone

Between the orbits and nose

Head & neckSkeletal system

High-yield

The cribriform plate transmits the olfactory nerves (CN I); fracture can cause CSF rhinorrhea and anosmia.

Overview

A light, spongy bone forming the medial orbital walls, the roof of the nasal cavity, and part of the nasal septum, and containing the ethmoidal air cells.

Reference facts

Bone type
Irregular
Key landmarks
Cribriform plate; Crista galli; Perpendicular plate; Superior and middle nasal conchae; Ethmoidal air cells
Articulations
Frontal; Sphenoid; Nasal, lacrimal, maxilla, palatine, vomer bones

Frequently asked questions

What type of bone is the ethmoid bone?

The ethmoid bone is an irregular bone.

What does the ethmoid bone articulate with?

The ethmoid bone articulates with the frontal; Sphenoid; Nasal, lacrimal, maxilla, palatine, vomer bones.

What are the key landmarks of the ethmoid bone?

Key landmarks of the ethmoid bone include the cribriform plate; Crista galli; Perpendicular plate; Superior and middle nasal conchae; Ethmoidal air cells.