Anterior epistaxis is most commonly associated with bleeding from which site?

• A. Posterior nasal wall
• B. Sphenopalatine artery
• C. Kiesselbach's plexus
• D. Anterior ethmoidal artery

Answer: (C)

Kiesselbach's plexus, also known as Little's area, on the anterior inferior nasal septum, is the most common source of anterior epistaxis. This region brings together several arteries—the anterior ethmoidal, sphenopalatine, greater palatine, and a septal branch of the superior labial artery—forming a dense network of very thin mucosa. Because of that vulnerability, minor trauma like nose picking or dryness easily disrupts these vessels, producing bright red bleeding that is typical of anterior bleeds. In contrast, posterior epistaxis usually originates from deeper vessels in the posterior nasal cavity, particularly the sphenopalatine artery, and tends to be heavier and harder to control.