HYPOGLOTTIS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "hypoglottis" refers to a small membranous fold present at the base of the tongue, known as the epiglottic vallecula. Positioned just behind the epiglottis, this anatomical structure is located within the laryngopharynx, a part of the throat responsible for guiding air and food into their respective pathways.
The hypoglottis is composed of thin tissue and acts as a protective barrier, preventing food particles or other substances from entering the glottis, a slit-like opening located between the vocal folds within the larynx. Its main purpose is to aid in maintaining efficient airway passage by deflecting substances, ensuring that they are properly directed to the esophagus during swallowing.
This fold is crucial for the normal functioning of the respiratory and digestive systems. Any abnormalities or damage to the hypoglottis can lead to difficulties in swallowing or choking, potentially causing aspiration (inhalation of foreign substances into the respiratory tract) or dyspnea (difficulty breathing).
The hypoglottis is an integral part of the intricate anatomy of the throat, contributing to the coordination of various mechanisms involved in protecting the airway during swallowing and respiratory processes. Its significance lies in its ability to promote a harmonious workflow between the structures of the throat, ensuring the efficient passage of air and food while preventing potential complications.
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1. The under surface of the tongue. 2. Ranula.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPOGLOTTIS
- hypoglossis
- gypoglottis
- bypoglottis
- nypoglottis
- jypoglottis
- uypoglottis
- yypoglottis
- htpoglottis
- hgpoglottis
- hhpoglottis
- hupoglottis
- h7poglottis
- h6poglottis
- hyooglottis
- hyloglottis
- hy-oglottis
- hy0oglottis
- hypiglottis
- hypkglottis
- hyplglottis
Etymology of HYPOGLOTTIS
The word "hypoglottis" is derived from the Greek roots "hypo-", meaning "under" or "below", and "glottis", referring to the opening between the vocal folds in the larynx. Thus, "hypoglottis" literally means "below the glottis" and is used to describe a part of the throat located beneath the glottis.
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