Palatoglossus

Palatoglossus is a muscle of the human body that plays a crucial role in the functioning of the mouth and throat, particularly in the processes of swallowing and speech production. It is one of the muscles of the palate, specifically part of the soft palate, and extends to the tongue, hence the name palatoglossus, where "palato" refers to the palate and "glossus" refers to the tongue.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The palatoglossus muscle originates from the palatine aponeurosis of the soft palate and runs downwards, laterally, to insert into the sides of the tongue. It is innervated by the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X), specifically through the pharyngeal plexus. This muscle is unique because it is the only muscle of the tongue that is not innervated by the hypoglossal nerve (cranial nerve XII).

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the palatoglossus is to elevate the posterior part of the tongue and lower the soft palate. This action helps in closing the oropharyngeal isthmus during swallowing, preventing the backflow of food into the nasopharynx. Additionally, it plays a role in speech by contributing to the articulation of certain sounds that require the elevation of the back of the tongue.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Dysfunction of the palatoglossus muscle can lead to difficulties in swallowing (dysphagia) and speech articulation problems. It may be involved in conditions such as Velopharyngeal Insufficiency (VPI), where there is an inadequate closure of the velopharyngeal sphincter (the soft palate muscle and the throat), leading to hypernasal speech sounds.