Orofaryngeální

Orofaryngeal refers to the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat located behind the oral cavity. It extends from the soft palate to the level of the hyoid bone. This region is a crucial passage for both air and food. It is lined with mucous membranes and contains several important structures, including the tonsils, the uvula, and the base of the tongue. The oropharynx plays a role in swallowing, speech, and respiration. It is also a common site for infections and other medical conditions.

The oropharynx is anatomically divided into several areas. The fauces, also known as the tonsillar pillars, are the arches of tissue that mark the beginning of the oropharynx. Between these arches are the palatine tonsils. The uvula hangs down from the posterior edge of the soft palate, situated in the midline. The posterior wall of the oropharynx is formed by the superior constrictor muscles. The tongue's posterior third forms the floor of the oropharynx.

Common conditions affecting the oropharynx include pharyngitis (sore throat), tonsillitis, and oral thrush. Symptoms can range from pain and difficulty swallowing to swelling and the presence of white patches. Medical evaluation is often necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for oropharyngeal issues. Diagnosis may involve physical examination, throat swabs, and sometimes imaging studies.