nasopharynx /nā′zōfer″ingks/ [L, nasus + Gk, pharynx, throat] , the uppermost of the three regions of the throat (pharynx), situated behind the nasal cavity and extending from the posterior nares to the level above the soft palate. On the posterior wall of the nasopharynx, opposite the posterior nares, are the pharyngeal tonsils. Swollen or enlarged pharyngeal tonsils can fill the space behind the posterior nares and may completely block the passage of air from the nose into the throat. Compare laryngopharynx, oropharynx. See also adenoids, tonsil. −nasopharyngeal, adj.
