epiglottis n : a flap of cartilage that covers the windpipe while swallowing [also: epiglottides (pl)]

see Epiglottis

English

Etymology

from New Latin, from Greek "epi-" on + "glottis"

Pronunciation

(Canada) /ˌɛpɪˈglɑtɪs/

Noun

epiglottis (English plural epiglottises; classical plural epiglottides)

1. A cartilaginous organ in the throat of terrestrial vertebrates covering the glottis when swallowing to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea, and in Homo sapiens also a speech organ.

   My epiglottis is full of bees!

Derived terms

• epiglottal
• epiglottic

Related terms

• glottis

Translations

See also

• Wikipedia article on the epiglottis

The epiglottis is a lid-like flap of elastic cartilage tissue covered with a mucous membrane, attached to the root of the tongue. It projects obliquely upwards behind the tongue and the hyoid bone.

Anatomy and function

The epiglottis guards the entrance of the glottis, the opening between the vocal folds.

It is normally pointed upward, but during swallowing, elevation of the hyoid bone draws the larynx upward; as a result, the epiglottis folds down to a more horizontal position. In this manner it prevents food from going into the trachea and instead directs it to the esophagus, which is more posterior.

The epiglottis is one of nine cartilaginous structures that make up the larynx (voice box). (There are 3 single laryngeal cartilages: thyroid, epiglottis, cricoid and also 3 paired laryngeal cartilages: arytenoid, cuneiform and corniculate).

Clinical significance

Reflexes

The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) sends fibers to the upper epiglottis that contribute to the afferent limb of the gag reflex. The superior laryngeal branch of the vagus nerve (CN X) sends fibers to the lower epiglottis that contribute to the afferent limb of the cough reflex.

Infection of the epiglottis

In children, the epiglottis will occasionally become infected with Haemophilus influenzae or Streptocoche in the trachea, causing massive inflammation. This condition has become rare in countries where vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae (HIB) is administered.

Additional images

Image:Illu larynx.jpg|Larynx Image:Kehlkopf Pferd.jpg|Cut through the larynx of a horse

References

External links

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