Pharyngeal mucosa
Learning objectives
After going through this study unit you will be able to:
- Locate the pharynx.
- Name the three divisions of the pharynx.
- Identify and describe the main landmarks of the pharyngeal mucosa.
Watch videos
The pharynx, commonly known as the throat, is a muscular tube extending from the nasal and oral cavities until the larynx and the esophagus. Basically, it is a place of passage for air, food, and liquids. Based on its anterior relations, the pharynx is divided into three mains sections: the nasopharynx, posterior to the nasal cavity; the oropharynx, posterior to the oral cavity; and the laryngopharynx posterior to the larynx. The pharyngeal wall is formed essentially by muscles and fascia and is covered internally by mucosa. The pharyngeal mucosa shows different landmarks that will be reviewed in this study unit.
Take a look at the video below to start exploring this topic!
Take a quiz
Solidify your knowledge of the pharyngeal mucosa by taking the quiz below!
Challenge yourself even further with our custom quiz about all the structures of the pharynx!
Browse atlas
Now that you know where the pharynx is and how it is divided, explore our atlas gallery below where you will find each individual structure of the pharyngeal mucosa highlighted.
Summary
Nasopharynx | Pharyngeal tonsil Pharyngeal opening of auditory tube Torus tubarius Pharyngeal recess Salpingopharyngeal fold Torus levatorius |
Oropharynx | Soft palate Palatoglossal folds or arches (enclosing oropharyngeal isthmus) Palatopharyngeal folds or arches Root of tongue (with the lingual tonsil) Valleculae and glossoepiglottic folds Palatine tonsils |
Laryngopharynx | Piriform fossae (with fold of superior laryngeal nerve) Laryngeal inlet Epiglottis Aryepiglottic fold Cuneiform tubercle Corniculate tubercle Interarytenoid notch |
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