aryepiglottic fold
Pronunciation: AR-ee-EP-ih-glot-ik
Mucosal fold extending from the arytenoid cartilage to the epiglottis, forming the lateral border of the laryngeal inlet. Important landmark in supraglottic anatomy.
Full Definition
A mucosal fold that extends from the arytenoid cartilages posteriorly to the lateral margins of the epiglottis anteriorly, forming the lateral boundaries of the laryngeal inlet or aditus. These bilateral structures are part of the supraglottic larynx and contain the cuneiform and corniculate cartilages within their substance. The aryepiglottic folds play important roles in laryngeal protection during swallowing by helping to close the laryngeal inlet and direct the food bolus around the larynx into the esophagus. They are lined with respiratory epithelium and contain minor salivary glands. In head and neck oncology, tumors arising from the aryepiglottic folds are classified as supraglottic laryngeal cancers and may present with symptoms including dysphagia, odynophagia, and voice changes. The proximity to critical structures makes surgical management challenging and often requires careful consideration of functional outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Specify laterality (left/right) when documenting pathologic findings.
In Context
- "Endoscopic examination revealed a mass involving the left aryepiglottic fold with extension to the false vocal cord." — Clinical examination
- "The tumor was confined to the aryepiglottic fold without involvement of the true vocal cords or anterior commissure." — Staging evaluation