Everything about The Epiglottis totally explained
The
epiglottis is a lid-like flap of
elastic cartilage tissue covered with a
mucous membrane, attached to the root of the
tongue. It projects obliquely upwards behind the tongue and the hyoid bone.
Anatomy and function
The epiglottis guards the entrance of the
glottis, the opening between the
vocal folds.
It is normally pointed upward, but during
swallowing, elevation of the
hyoid bone draws the larynx upward; as a result, the epiglottis folds down to a more horizontal position. In this manner it prevents food from going into the
trachea and instead directs it to the
esophagus, which is more posterior.
The epiglottis is one of nine cartilaginous structures that make up the
larynx (voice box).
(There are 3 single laryngeal cartilages: thyroid, epiglottis, cricoid and also 3 paired laryngeal cartilages: arytenoid, cuneiform and corniculate).
Clinical significance
Reflexes
The
glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) sends fibers to the upper epiglottis that contribute to the
afferent limb of the
gag reflex. The superior laryngeal branch of the
vagus nerve (CN X) sends fibers to the lower epiglottis that contribute to the afferent limb of the
cough reflex.
Infection of the epiglottis
In children, the epiglottis will occasionally become infected with
Haemophilus influenzae or
Streptocoche in the trachea, causing massive inflammation. This condition has become rare in countries where
vaccination against
Haemophilus influenzae (HIB) is administered.
Additional images
Image:Illu larynx.jpg|Larynx
Image:Kehlkopf Pferd.jpg|Cut through the larynx of a horse
Image:Gray950.png|The cartilages of the larynx. Posterior view.
Image:Gray952.png|Ligaments of the larynx. Posterior view.
Image:Gray954.png|Coronal section of larynx and upper part of trachea.
Image:Gray955.png|The entrance to the larynx, viewed from behind.
Image:Gray958.png|Muscles of larynx. Posterior view.
Image:Gray959.png|Muscles of larynx. Side view. Right lamina of thyroid cartilage removed.
Image:Gray994.png|Sagittal section of nose mouth, pharynx, and larynx.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Epiglottis'.
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