epiglottiss

Epiglottis, sometimes misspelled epiglottiss, is a leaf-shaped piece of elastic cartilage located at the entrance of the larynx, just behind the base of the tongue. It forms part of the upper airway and acts as a switch valve between the esophagus and the trachea during swallowing. The epiglottis is covered by mucosa and is attached to the thyroid cartilage by the thyroepiglottic ligament and to the hyoid bone by the hyoepiglottic ligament. Its upper pharyngeal surface faces the oropharynx, while its laryngeal surface faces the laryngeal inlet.

Structure and function

The epiglottis is shaped to tilt and fold over the glottis during swallowing, helping to prevent aspiration of food and liquids into the lower respiratory tract. Swallowing triggers elevation of the larynx and posterior tilting or closure of the epiglottis in coordination with the aryepiglottic folds and other laryngeal muscles. The epiglottis remains mobile in most individuals, contributing to a clear airway during respiration when not swallowing.

Innervation and blood supply

The epiglottis above the vocal cords receives sensory innervation from the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (a branch of the vagus nerve). Motor control of surrounding laryngeal movements is provided by branches of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Blood supply comes from the superior and inferior laryngeal arteries, with venous drainage following similar paths.

Clinical relevance

Acute epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the epiglottis, historically linked to Haemophilus influenzae type b but now less common due to vaccination. It presents with fever, severe throat pain, muffled or hoarse voice, drooling, and possible airway obstruction, requiring urgent airway management. Other conditions affecting the epiglottis include cysts, tumors, or inflammatory changes that may impair swallowing or airway protection.