Which structure forms the pre-epiglottic space posteriorly and is important because tumour invasion of this space upstages a supraglottic carcinoma to at least T3?

• A Thyroepiglottic ligament
• B Epiglottis itself
• C Aryepiglottic fold
• D Hyoepiglottic ligament ✓

Explanation

The pre-epiglottic space is bounded anteriorly by the thyrohyoid membrane and body of hyoid, superiorly by the hyoepiglottic ligament, and posteriorly by the epiglottis. The hyoepiglottic ligament forms the posterior (deep) boundary. Tumour transgression of the epiglottic cartilage into the pre-epiglottic space is a T3 feature in the AJCC TNM system because this space allows spread beyond the confines of the epiglottis, increasing the risk of local recurrence after supraglottic laryngectomy.

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.