Epiglottis Cartilage

cartilago epiglottica

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped elastic cartilage attached at its base to the posterior aspect of the thyroid cartilage and hyoid bone via the thyroepiglottic and hyoepiglottic ligaments. Its free superior portion overhangs the laryngeal inlet. The lingual surface (anterior) is covered by squamous mucosa continuous with the base of tongue; the laryngeal surface (posterior) has mucosa continuous with the aryepiglottic folds.

Region: Neck

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The epiglottis deflects boluses of food and liquid laterally into the piriform sinuses during swallowing, protecting the laryngeal inlet. Epiglottitis (supraglottitis) from H. influenzae type b or Group A streptococcus produces severe, potentially fatal airway obstruction from oedema of the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds, the classic thumbprint sign on lateral neck radiograph. Laryngoscopy is deferred until anaesthesia can provide a secure airway. The pre-epiglottic space anterior to the epiglottis is the initial route of supraglottic laryngeal carcinoma spread.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Acute Epiglottitis Airway Emergency

Bacterial epiglottitis produces severe inflammatory oedema of the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds creating life-threatening airway obstruction with the classic thumbprint sign on lateral neck radiograph; management requires skilled senior airway management in the operating room with immediate tracheostomy backup, followed by IV antibiotics.