The larynx (from the Greek larugks), is an organ of the respiratory system, located in the throat between the pharynx and the trachea.

Intermediate between the pharynx and the trachea. The larynx is located after the pharynx, at the level of the separation between the airways (towards the trachea) and the digestive tract (towards the esophagus). The larynx is attached in its upper part to the hyoid bone.

Structure cartilagineuse. The larynx is a duct made up of different cartilages (1) including five main ones:

• Thyroid cartilage, which forms the bump in the neck called the Adam’s apple.
• The epiglottic cartilage, or epiglottis, which is involved in swallowing and breathing by opening or closing the larynx.
• The arytenoid cartilages, which are two small mobile cartilages ensuring the attachment of the vocal cords.
• The cricoid cartilage, which provides the base of the larynx.

The cartilages are linked together by a set of ligaments and surrounded by membranes that ensure the rigidity of the larynx.

Musculature laryngée. The movement of the larynx is enabled by several muscles which will be particularly involved in the movement of the epiglottis and the vocal cords.

Role in swallowing. In order to prevent the passage of food or fluids through the trachea and lungs, the epiglottis closes the larynx and the vocal cords come together (2).

Respiratory function. The epiglottis and vocal cords pass inhaled air to the trachea and lungs, and exhaled air to the pharynx (2).

Organ of speech. The sound of speech is emitted when exhaled air vibrates the vocal cords (2).

Sore throat. In the majority of cases, they are of viral origin. In the case of laryngitis or epiglottitis, they may be linked to a bacterial infection.

Laryngitis. It corresponds to inflammation of the larynx, especially in the vocal cords. Acute or chronic, it can manifest as a cough and dysphonia (pathway disorders). It is more serious in children and may be accompanied by dyspnea (difficulty breathing) (3).

Epiglottite. Often of bacterial origin, it is a severe form of laryngitis that can lead to edema of the epiglottis and asphyxia (3,4).

Laryngeal cancer. It is usually associated with throat cancer and can occur at any level of the larynx (5).

Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatment. An antibiotic may be prescribed for a bacterial infection. Anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed to limit inflammation.

Tracheotomy. In the most serious cases, this surgical intervention consists of an opening at the level of the larynx to allow the passage of air and prevent asphyxiation.

Laryngectomie. In the most severe cases of cancer, removal of the larynx may be performed6.

Radiotherapy. Cancer cells are destroyed by exposure to x-rays (6).

Chemotherapy. Medicines can be given to limit the spread of cancer.

Indirect laryngoscopy. It allows you to observe the larynx using a small mirror placed at the back of the throat (7).

Direct laryngoscopy. The larynx is studied using a rigid and flexible tube introduced through the nose. This intervention can also allow a sample to be taken (biopsy) if the examination requires it (7).

La laryngopharyngographie. This x-ray examination of the larynx can be performed to complete the diagnosis (7).

The low position of the larynx in modern humans compared to other mammals was the subject of a theory on the origin of language. However, recent research suggests that the ability to speak is much older (8).