Histology of the vocal cords

Histology of the Vocal Cords

File:Vocal cords.jpg

Histological view of the vocal cords

The Histology of the Vocal Cords refers to the microscopic study of the tissue structure of the vocal cords, also known as vocal folds. The vocal cords are integral to the human voice production system, playing a crucial role in the generation of sound.

Structure

The vocal cords are composed of various layers of tissue, each with a specific function and histological structure. These layers include the epithelium, the lamina propria, and the vocalis muscle.

Epithelium

The outermost layer of the vocal cords is the epithelium. This layer is composed of stratified squamous epithelium, which is designed to withstand the friction generated during vocalization.

Lamina Propria

Beneath the epithelium lies the lamina propria, which is further divided into three layers: the superficial layer, the intermediate layer, and the deep layer. These layers are composed of loose connective tissue, elastic fibers, and collagen fibers respectively. The lamina propria allows for the flexibility and vibration necessary for sound production.

Vocalis Muscle

The deepest layer of the vocal cords is the vocalis muscle. This muscle controls the tension and length of the vocal cords, which in turn affects the pitch and volume of the voice.

Function

The histological structure of the vocal cords allows for the complex process of phonation. During phonation, air from the lungs passes through the vocal cords, causing them to vibrate. This vibration, combined with the resonance of the vocal tract, produces sound.

File:Vocal cords closeup.jpg

Close-up view of the vocal cords

See Also

• Larynx
• Voice production
• Phonation
• Vocal fold nodules