Which cartilage of the larynx is unique in forming a complete ring around the airway?
- A Thyroid cartilage
- B Epiglottis
- C Cricoid cartilage ✓
- D Arytenoid cartilage
Correct answer: C. Cricoid cartilage
Explanation
The cricoid is the only laryngeal cartilage that completely encircles the airway: a signet-ring shape with a tall lamina posteriorly and a narrow arch anteriorly. The thyroid cartilage is open posteriorly, the arytenoids are paired pyramids, and the epiglottis is a single leaf. This complete ring means circumferential cricoid oedema rapidly obstructs the airway, and cricotracheal injuries are unstable fractures.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.