RHINOPHARYNX Meaning and
Definition
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The rhinopharynx, also known as the nasopharynx, is a specific anatomical structure located in the upper part of the throat, behind the nose and above the soft palate. It is the uppermost part of the pharynx or throat, which is a muscular tube connecting the nasal cavity and mouth to the esophagus and larynx.
The rhinopharynx serves as a conduit for air, allowing passage of air from the nose to the lower respiratory tract. It also plays a crucial role in the process of breathing as it functions as a resonating chamber for vocal sounds. In addition, it acts as a protective barrier against infections, thanks to the presence of specialized immune cells that help fight off pathogens.
Anatomically, the rhinopharynx is lined with ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium, a type of tissue that helps to trap and remove debris and microorganisms from the respiratory system. It also contains the opening of the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, allowing pressure equalization and drainage of fluids from the ear.
Disorders affecting the rhinopharynx can include infections such as the common cold, as well as more serious conditions like rhinopharyngeal cancer. Symptoms of rhinopharyngeal issues may include nasal congestion, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and changes in speech or voice quality.
Overall, the rhinopharynx plays a significant role in respiratory function, vocalization, and immune defense within the human body.
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Nasopharynx, the upper portion of the pharynx, above the level of the palate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for RHINOPHARYNX
- ehinopharynx
- dhinopharynx
- fhinopharynx
- thinopharynx
- 5hinopharynx
- 4hinopharynx
- rginopharynx
- rbinopharynx
- rninopharynx
- rjinopharynx
- ruinopharynx
- ryinopharynx
- rhunopharynx
- rhjnopharynx
- rhknopharynx
- rhonopharynx
- rh9nopharynx
- rh8nopharynx
- rhibopharynx
- rhimopharynx
Etymology of RHINOPHARYNX
The word "Rhinopharynx" is derived from two Greek words: "rhinos" and "pharynx".
1. "Rhinos" (ῥῖνος) means nose in Greek, which is derived from Proto-Indo-European roots. This term also gave rise to other words related to the nose, such as rhinoplasty (surgery of the nose) and rhinitis (inflammation of the nose).
2. "Pharynx" (φάρυγξ) means throat in Greek. It is also derived from Proto-Indo-European roots and has the same origin as the English word "pharynx".
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