High-Yield Larynx Anatomy (Radiographic Focus)
Key Anatomical Landmarks on Lateral Neck X-ray
| Structure | Radiographic Appearance |
|---|---|
| Epiglottis | Thumb-like shadow anterior to the laryngeal inlet. |
| Thyroid Cartilage | Visible calcification often seen in older adults. |
| Cricoid Cartilage | Below the thyroid cartilage marks the start of the trachea (C6 level). |
| Vallecula | Air-filled space between the base of the tongue and the epiglottis. |
NEET PG “Must-Know” Clinical Pearls
- Thumbprint Sign: Classic radiographic sign of Epiglottitis (swollen, enlarged epiglottis).
- Steeple Sign: Classic radiographic sign of Croup (Laryngotracheobronchitis), indicating subglottic narrowing of the trachea.
- Retropharyngeal Space: Measured on lateral neck X-ray; if it exceeds the width of the C2 vertebral body, it suggests a retropharyngeal abscess.
- Sensory Innervation: Internal laryngeal nerve (branch of superior laryngeal nerve) provides sensation above the vocal cords; recurrent laryngeal nerve provides sensation below the vocal cords.