The term "plica glossoepiglottica mediana" refers to a fold of tissue found in the throat. The correct spelling of this medical term is tricky, but its pronunciation can be better understood through the IPA phonetic transcription [ˈplɪka ˌɡlɒsəʊepɪˈɡlɒtɪkə mɪˈdeɪnə]. The term is derived from Latin and Greek, where "plica" means "fold", "glossa" means "tongue", "epiglottis" means "cartilage flap covering the trachea", and "mediana" means "central". As a result, the term describes the location of the tissue fold in the throat.
The term "plica glossoepiglottica mediana" refers to a medical condition characterized by the presence of a midline fold of tissue located on the surface of the tongue near the epiglottis. The condition is relatively rare and can present itself as a congenital abnormality or as a acquired anomaly.
The plica glossoepiglottica mediana is a fold that extends from the base of the tongue towards the epiglottis, which is a leaf-shaped cartilage that covers the entrance to the larynx during swallowing. This midline fold can vary in size and appearance, but it is usually relatively small and inconspicuous. In some cases, however, the fold can become enlarged and hypertrophied, meaning it grows larger than normal.
When the plica glossoepiglottica mediana becomes enlarged, it may cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), foreign body sensation in the throat, or even obstruction of the airway in severe cases. In these instances, the condition may require medical intervention or surgical removal.
Overall, the plica glossoepiglottica mediana is an anatomical feature that may become pathologically enlarged, leading to potential complications. Proper diagnosis and management should be carried out by healthcare professionals to address any symptoms and determine appropriate treatment options.
Middle glossoepiglottidean fold, frenulum epiglottidis, a fold of mucous membrane extending from the back part of the dorsum of the tongue to the front of the epiglottis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.