Levator muscle of thyroid gland

Levator Glandulae Thyroideae

The levator glandulae thyroideae is a small muscle located in the neck. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

The Levator Glandulae Thyroideae or Levator Muscle of Thyroid Gland is a small muscle located in the neck. It is an anatomical variant, meaning it is not present in all individuals. When present, it is found anterior to the thyroid gland and can vary in size and shape.

Anatomy

The Levator Glandulae Thyroideae originates from the thyrohyoid membrane or the thyroid cartilage, and inserts into the thyroid gland. It is innervated by the ansa cervicalis, a loop of nerves in the neck that is part of the cervical plexus.

Function

The function of the Levator Glandulae Thyroideae is not well understood due to its variable presence in the population. However, it is thought to play a role in the movement of the thyroid gland during swallowing.

Clinical Significance

The presence of the Levator Glandulae Thyroideae can have implications in thyroid surgery. It can potentially be mistaken for a thyroid nodule or a cancerous growth, leading to unnecessary surgical intervention.

See Also

• Thyroid
• Thyrohyoid membrane
• Thyroid cartilage
• Ansa cervicalis