Epiglottis

StructureDevelopmentFunctionIf food or liquid enters the airway due to the epiglottis failing to close properly, throat-clearing or a cough reflex may occur to protect the respiratory system and expel material from the airway. Where there is impairment in laryngeal vestibule sensation, silent aspiration (entry of material to the airway that does not result in a cough reflex) may occur. OtherThe epiglottis and vallecula are important anatomical landmarks in intubation. Abnormal positioning of the epiglottis is a rare cause of obstructive sleep apnoea. Other animalsThe epiglottis is present in mammals, including land mammals and cetaceans, also as a cartilaginous structure. Like in humans, it functions to prevent entry of food into the trachea during swallowing. The position of the larynx is flat in mice and other rodents, as well as rabbits. For this reason, because the epiglottis is located behind the soft palate in rabbits, they are obligate nose breathers, as are mice and other rodents. In rodents and mice, there is a unique pouch in front of the epiglottis, and the epiglottis is commonly injured by inhaled substances, particularly at the transition zone between the flattened and