Laryngopharynx

Laryngopharynx is the lower part of the pharynx, the part of the throat that connects to the esophagus and the larynx, or voice box. The laryngopharynx functions as a pathway for food and air and is lined with a mucous membrane.

Anatomy

The laryngopharynx begins at the level of the hyoid bone, which is approximately at the level of the sixth cervical vertebra. It continues down to the lower edge of the cricoid cartilage, the largest cartilage within the larynx, at approximately the level of the sixth cervical vertebra. The laryngopharynx is posterior to the larynx.

Function

The laryngopharynx serves as a passageway for both food and air. During swallowing, the epiglottis closes off the larynx to prevent food and liquid from entering the lungs. The food then continues down the esophagus into the stomach. The laryngopharynx also serves as a passageway for air from the nasal cavity to the larynx during breathing.

Clinical significance

Problems with the laryngopharynx can lead to a variety of medical conditions. These include laryngopharyngeal reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the throat, and pharyngitis, inflammation of the pharynx. Cancer can also develop in the laryngopharynx, often associated with smoking and alcohol consumption.

See also

• Pharynx
• Larynx
• Esophagus

References

Laryngopharynx Resources
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