Torus tubarius

Torus Tubarius

Diagram of the nasopharynx showing the location of the torus tubarius.

The torus tubarius is an important anatomical structure located in the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the pharynx that lies behind the nasal cavity. It plays a crucial role in the function of the Eustachian tube, also known as the auditory tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx.

Anatomy

The torus tubarius is a prominent ridge or bulge that is formed by the underlying cartilage of the Eustachian tube. It is situated on the lateral wall of the nasopharynx, posterior to the opening of the Eustachian tube. The torus tubarius is covered by a mucous membrane and is part of the pharyngeal opening of the Eustachian tube.

Function

The primary function of the torus tubarius is to support the opening of the Eustachian tube. The Eustachian tube is responsible for equalizing the pressure between the middle ear and the external environment, which is essential for proper hearing. The torus tubarius helps maintain the patency of the Eustachian tube, allowing it to open and close as needed to regulate air pressure.

Clinical Significance

The torus tubarius can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, inflammation or infection of the nasopharynx, such as in cases of nasopharyngitis or adenoiditis, can lead to dysfunction of the Eustachian tube. This can result in conditions such as otitis media with effusion, where fluid accumulates in the middle ear due to impaired drainage.

In some cases, the torus tubarius may be examined during an endoscopic evaluation of the nasopharynx, especially if there are concerns about Eustachian tube dysfunction or other nasopharyngeal pathologies.

Related Structures

The torus tubarius is closely associated with several other anatomical structures in the nasopharynx:

• The pharyngeal tonsil, also known as the adenoids, is located in the roof of the nasopharynx and can affect the function of the Eustachian tube if enlarged.
• The salpingopharyngeal fold is a mucosal fold that extends from the torus tubarius to the pharynx and contains the salpingopharyngeus muscle, which helps open the Eustachian tube during swallowing.

Related Pages

• Eustachian tube
• Nasopharynx
• Pharynx
• Otitis media