Pharyngeal recess

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Pharyngeal recess

The pharyngeal recess, also known as the fossa of Rosenmüller, is a small anatomical depression located in the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the pharynx situated behind the nasal cavity and above the soft palate. This recess is an important landmark in the field of otolaryngology and is clinically significant due to its proximity to various vital structures.

Anatomy

The pharyngeal recess is situated in the lateral wall of the nasopharynx, posterior to the Eustachian tube (also known as the auditory tube or pharyngotympanic tube). It is bordered anteriorly by the torus tubarius, which is a cartilaginous structure that surrounds the opening of the Eustachian tube. The recess extends posteriorly and superiorly, forming a blind pouch.

Clinical Significance

The pharyngeal recess is a common site for the origin of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a type of cancer that arises from the epithelial cells lining the nasopharynx. Due to its location, tumors in this area can often go undetected in the early stages, leading to a delay in diagnosis. The proximity of the pharyngeal recess to the internal carotid artery, cranial nerves, and the base of the skull makes surgical intervention challenging.

Related Structures

• Nasopharynx
• Eustachian tube
• Torus tubarius
• Soft palate
• Internal carotid artery
• Cranial nerves

See Also

• Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
• Otolaryngology
• Pharynx
• Anatomy