Most common pa of larynx involved in TB ?
**Core Concept**
The question is testing knowledge of laryngeal tuberculosis, a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that affects the larynx. Laryngeal tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* and can lead to symptoms such as hoarseness, cough, and difficulty swallowing.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The most common part of the larynx involved in TB is the vocal cords. This is because the vocal cords are highly vascularized and have a rich lymphatic supply, making them more susceptible to infection. The infection typically spreads to the vocal cords from the lungs through the bloodstream. The vocal cords are also a common site for TB lesions to form, leading to symptoms such as hoarseness and cough.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** The epiglottis is not a common site for TB lesions in the larynx. While the epiglottis can be involved in TB, it is not as common as the vocal cords.
* **Option B:** The arytenoids are small cartilaginous structures in the larynx that are not typically involved in TB. The vocal cords are much more commonly affected.
* **Option C:** The cricoid cartilage is a ring-like structure in the larynx that is not typically involved in TB. The vocal cords are the most common site for TB lesions in the larynx.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Laryngeal tuberculosis is a rare but serious condition that can be difficult to diagnose. It is often mistaken for other conditions such as laryngitis or vocal cord nodules. A high index of suspicion is necessary to diagnose laryngeal TB, and a biopsy of the affected area may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
**Correct Answer:** C.