Epiglottic cartilage

Epiglottic Cartilage is a leaf-shaped piece of elastic cartilage located at the base of the tongue and the entrance of the larynx. It is one of the nine cartilages that make up the laryngeal skeleton, which supports the soft tissues of the larynx.

Structure

The epiglottic cartilage is thin and flexible, allowing it to move freely. Its anterior surface is attached to the inner part of the thyroid cartilage and the hyoid bone, while its posterior surface is free and covered by mucous membrane. The epiglottic cartilage is covered by a layer of connective tissue and epithelium.

Function

The primary function of the epiglottic cartilage is to protect the airway during swallowing. When swallowing, the epiglottis, the flap of tissue that the epiglottic cartilage supports, folds down to cover the entrance of the larynx to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea and reaching the lungs. This action is crucial in preventing aspiration pneumonia, a condition that can occur if food or liquid enters the lungs.

Clinical Significance

Damage or inflammation of the epiglottic cartilage can lead to epiglottitis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Epiglottitis can cause the epiglottis to swell and block the airway, leading to difficulty breathing. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

See Also

• Larynx
• Cartilage
• Epiglottis
• Aspiration pneumonia
• Epiglottitis