Retropharyngeal
Retropharyngeal
Retropharyngeal (pronunciation: reh-troh-fair-in-gee-al) is a term used in medicine to describe the area located behind the pharynx.
Etymology
The term is derived from the Latin retro meaning behind, and pharynx meaning throat.
Definition
The retropharyngeal space is an area in the neck that is found behind the pharynx and is in front of the vertebral column. It is filled with loose connective tissue and runs from the base of the skull to the level of the second thoracic vertebra.
Clinical Significance
Infections in the retropharyngeal space, known as retropharyngeal abscess, can be life-threatening. They can cause difficulty in breathing, swallowing, and can spread to other parts of the body.
Related Terms
- Pharynx: The part of the throat behind the mouth and nasal cavity, and above the esophagus and larynx.
- Vertebral column: Also known as the spine, it is a column usually consisting of 24 articulating vertebrae and 9 fused vertebrae in the sacrum and the coccyx.
- Connective tissue: A type of tissue that provides support and holds the body's cells, organs, and tissues together.
- Retropharyngeal abscess: A collection of pus in the tissues at the back of the throat. It can be a life-threatening medical condition.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Retropharyngeal
- Wikipedia's article - Retropharyngeal
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