Which laryngeal cartilage does NOT ossify in normal adults?
- A Thyroid cartilage
- B Cricoid cartilage
- C Epiglottic cartilage ✓
- D Arytenoid cartilage
Correct answer: C. Epiglottic cartilage
Explanation
The epiglottis is composed of elastic fibrocartilage (as are the cuneiform, corniculate, and arytenoid vocal processes), which does not undergo ossification. In contrast, the thyroid, cricoid, and most of the arytenoid cartilages are hyaline cartilage and undergo progressive ossification beginning in the third decade, appearing on plain X-rays and CT scans of the neck.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.