buccopharyngeal

Buccopharyngeal is an anatomical term describing relations between the cheek region (buccal) and the pharynx. Derived from bucca (cheek) and pharynx, the term is used in several contexts to identify structures and spaces that lie at the interface of the oral cavity and the pharyngeal region. It appears in the naming of membranes, fasciae and potential spaces in head and neck anatomy.

Buccopharyngeal membrane refers to an embryonic structure formed where ectoderm of the stomodeum meets endoderm of the foregut. This buccopharyngeal membrane lies at the future opening between the mouth and the pharynx and normally ruptures during the fourth week of development to establish continuity between oral cavity and digestive tract.

Buccopharyngeal fascia is a layer of deep cervical fascia that covers the buccinator muscle and adjacent pharyngeal constrictor muscles, forming the anterior boundary of the retropharyngeal space. Clinically, this fascia is relevant because infections or fluid can spread from the oral cavity or pharynx into the retropharyngeal space and, in severe cases, toward the mediastinum.

See also buccinator, pharynx, retropharyngeal space, buccopharyngeal membrane.