Questions and Answers
Which function is primarily associated with the larynx?
What is the function of the epiglottis?
What is the structure known as the Adam’s apple?
Which cartilages of the larynx are paired?
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During exhalation, what happens to the vocal cords?
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What holds the nine cartilages of the larynx in position?
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What is the glottis?
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What type of cartilage is the cricoid cartilage described as?
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What is the primary purpose of the Valsalva maneuver in the larynx?
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Which of the following describes the false vocal cords?
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What is the primary type of epithelium found in the tracheobronchial tree?
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What is the main component of the mucous blanket in the tracheobronchial tree?
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Which structure in the respiratory system is absent of cilia?
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Which of the following is NOT a component found in the lamina propria?
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What is the purpose of cilia moving in a wavelike fashion in the tracheobronchial tree?
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What is the average length of the trachea?
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Which of the following statements about the right main stem bronchus is true?
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What is the function of Clara cells found in terminal bronchioles?
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What type of cartilage supports the trachea?
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What is the significance of the canals of Lambert appearing in terminal bronchioles?
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Study Notes
Larynx Overview
- Known as the "voice box," situated between the base of the tongue and the trachea's upper end.
- Functions include air passage between the pharynx and trachea, protecting against aspiration, and generating sound for speech.
Cartilages of the Larynx
- Comprises nine cartilages, supported by intrinsic and extrinsic muscles.
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Single Cartilages:
- Thyroid: Largest, forms the Adam's apple.
- Cricoid: Signet ring-shaped, located beneath the thyroid.
- Epiglottis: Broad, spoon-shaped, prevents aspiration during swallowing.
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Paired Cartilages:
- Arytenoid: Pyramid-shaped, plays a role in sound production.
- Corniculate and Cuneiform: Small, stiffen the glottic folds.
Vocal Cords and Function
- Larynx lined with mucous membrane forming folds.
- Upper folds are false vocal cords; lower, true vocal cords have a vocal ligament.
- The space between true vocal cords is called the glottis.
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Airflow Mechanics:
- During inspiration, vocal cords abduct; during exhalation, they slightly adduct, maintaining an open glottic space.
- Valsalva’s maneuver seals the larynx for activities like lifting and coughing.
Tracheobronchial Tree Structure
- Airway branching defined as generations or orders.
- Composed of three layers: Epithelial lining, lamina propria, and a cartilaginous layer.
Histology of the Tracheobronchial Tree
- Epithelial lining consists of pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium, decreases in height towards smaller airways.
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Mucous Blanket:
- Mucous layer produced by goblet cells, approximately 100 ml/day, consists of 95% water.
- Has two layers: Sol (less viscous) and Gel (more viscous).
Immune Response in the Larynx
- Mast Cells: Present in the lamina propria, release mediators upon activation affecting bronchial tone.
- Cellular Immunity: Involves sensitized lymphocytes; humoral immunity involves circulating antibodies like IgE, IgG, and IgM.
Cartilaginous Airways
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Trachea:
- Length: 11-13 cm, diameter: 2.5 cm; divides into right and left main stem bronchi at the carina.
- Comprised of 15-20 C-shaped incomplete cartilages for support.
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Main Stem Bronchi:
- Right bronchus is shorter and wider, at a 25-degree angle; left bronchus at a 40-60-degree angle.
Noncartilaginous Airways
- Bronchioles: Between generations 10-15, lack cartilage and have low rigidity, surrounded by spiral muscle fibers.
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Terminal Bronchioles:
- Average diameter of 0.5 mm, cuboidal epithelium, lack cilia and mucus glands.
- Canals of Lambert appear, facilitating collateral ventilation.
Bronchial Blood Supply
- Supplied by bronchial arteries from the aorta with 2/3 of venous blood draining into the left atrium via pulmonary veins, leading to venous admixture.
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Description
Explore the anatomy and functions of the larynx, often referred to as the voice box. This quiz covers its location, protective mechanisms, the generation of sound, and the specific cartilages involved. Test your knowledge on the crucial role the larynx plays in speech and respiration.
