Difference Between Pharynx And Larynx: Overview, Definition & Divisions

What Is Pharynx And Larynx?

Understanding the difference between the pharynx and larynx, especially as associated with human anatomy, is vital to understanding other aspects of the respiratory and digestive systems. The following write-up makes it easier to understand the anatomy, functions, and importance of the two structures.

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Basic Concepts And Definitions

Sites of the pharynx are the muscle tubes within the body and serve the respiratory and digestive systems; itextends from the skull base to the oesophagus and is further divisible into three parts such as; nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx.

The larynx is commonly known as the voice box. It is located inferior to the pharynx. The larynx plays an important role in phonation, air passage, and protecting the lower airways. The main structures of the larynx include the thyroid cartilage, the cricoid cartilage, the epiglottis, and the vocal cords.

Anatomy And Structure

The anatomy of both pharynx and larynx has been discussed below:

Anatomy Of The Pharynx

The pharynx lies just posterior to the nasal and oral cavities. It is a region of the throat that connects the nasal cavity and the mouth to the larynx and oesophagus. The pharynx can be divided into three regions:

• Nasopharynx: The superior region of the pharynx that is associated with the nasal cavity

• Oropharynx: The middle region of the pharynx that is associated with the mouth

• Laryngopharynx: The inferior region of the pharynx that connects to the larynx and oesophagus

Anatomy Of The Larynx

The larynx is located just inferior to the pharynx and anterior to the oesophagus. The larynx is constructed of

• Thyroid cartilage: This is the largest cartilage, and it is commonly referred to as the Adam's apple.

• Cricoid cartilage: Ring-like cartilage that is inferior to the thyroid cartilage

• Epiglottis: A flap that closes over the trachea when swallowing

• Vocal cords: Folds of tissue that produce sound.

Functions Of The Pharynx

• Digestive system: It assists in the swallowing function - it moves food from the mouth downward to the oesophagus.

• Respiratory system: It provides a passage for air that is moving from the nasal cavity to the larynx.

• Immune function: Pharyngeal tonsils take part in the immunity of the body against infection

Functions Of The Larynx

• Respiratory system: Passage of air from the pharynx to the trachea

• Phonation: The vocal cords vibrate to produce sound

• Protective: At the onset of swallowing, the epiglottis closes to prevent descent through the trachea

Comparative Analysis

Disorders Of The Pharynx

• Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the pharynx, a condition that causes sore throat

• Tonsillitis: Tonsils are inflamed.

• Obstructive sleep apnea: Interruption of air passage while sleeping

Disorders Of The Larynx

• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, mostly leading to hoarseness

• Vocal cord nodules and polyps: The nodules developed on the vocal cords causing an impact on the voice

• Laryngeal cancer: The larynx was affected due to cancer

Clinical Significance

The pharynx and the larynx happen to be parts that are needed for breathing, swallowing, and speaking. An understanding of the differences is essential for differential diagnosis of the treatment of the varying forms of disorders from these regions. The major forms of diagnosis implemented are laryngoscopy and endoscopy.

Conclusion

The pharynx and larynx are important structures in the human body, with rather different functions. At the same time, the pharynx generally performs a primary role during deglutition and as a defence of the body against infection, while the larynx primarily functions in voice production and the protection of airways. Such knowledge is important in medicine and human biology.