Which is not a part of hypopharynx –
**Question:** Which is not a part of hypopharynx -
A. Tonsil
B. Epiglottis
C. Hyoid bone
D. Cricoid cartilage
**Correct Answer:** C. Hyoid bone
**Core Concept:** The hypopharynx is a part of the upper gastrointestinal tract, located between the pharynx and larynx. It is composed of the following structures:
1. **Pharynx**: A funnel-shaped tube that extends from the mouth to the nasopharynx. It is composed of three sections: nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.
2. **Laryngopharynx**: Also known as the pyriform sinus, it is the region where the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds connect.
3. **Epiglottis**: A cartilaginous structure that covers the larynx during swallowing to prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea.
4. **Hyoid bone**: A triangular bone that supports the larynx, thyroid cartilage, and tongue. It is not a part of the hypopharynx.
5. **Tonsil**: A lymphoid organ located in the oropharynx, not part of the hypopharynx.
6. **Cricoid cartilage**: A ring-shaped cartilage that forms part of the trachea, not a part of the hypopharynx.
7. **Arytenoid cartilages**: Paired cartilages that form the movable component of the larynx, not a part of the hypopharynx.
8. **Cochlear prominence**: A prominence on the posterior wall of the hypopharynx, between the hyoid bone and the thyroid cartilage.
9. **Aryepiglottic folds**: Laminae of the arytenoid cartilages that extend into the hypopharynx to form the epiglottis, not a part of the hypopharynx.
10. **Tonsil**: A lymphoid organ located in the oropharynx, not part of the hypopharynx.
**Core Concepts Explained:**
1. The hypopharynx is a region of the pharynx located below the larynx and above the esophagus. It is involved in the transition between the pharynx and larynx, and is part of the respiratory and digestive systems.
2. The hypopharynx contains the epiglottis, which covers the glottis during swallowing to prevent food and fluids from entering the trachea.
3. The hypopharynx is involved in the process of swallowing, speech, and breathing.
4. The hypopharynx is connected to the larynx by the aryepiglottic folds and is connected to the pharynx through the epiglottis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer, **Hyoid bone**, is not a part of the hypopharynx, as it is a bony structure