The Reinke's space is critical to understanding vocal cord pathology. Which of the following correctly describes Reinke's space?
- A A layer of dense fibrous tissue beneath the epithelium of the entire larynx
- B The space between the arytenoid cartilages
- C The potential space between the epithelium and the vocal ligament (superficial layer of the lamina propria) of the true vocal cord ✓
- D The paraglottic space between the conus elasticus and the thyroid cartilage
Correct answer: C. The potential space between the epithelium and the vocal ligament (superficial layer of the lamina propria) of the true vocal cord
Explanation
Reinke's space is the gelatinous, loosely arranged potential space between the squamous epithelium and the vocal ligament in the superficial layer of the lamina propria of the true vocal cords. Accumulation of fluid (from smoking, voice abuse, hypothyroidism) causes Reinke's edema (polypoid corditis), characterized by bilateral diffuse vocal cord swelling. Its boundaries restrict the edema to the true cords, giving the characteristic 'elephant ear' appearance.
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.