The largest cartilage in the human body is the thyroid cartilage.
Understanding Cartilage
Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in many areas of the body, including joints, the ears, and the nose. It is less rigid than bone but provides structure and support.
Thyroid Cartilage Specifics
- The thyroid cartilage is a prominent structure located in the larynx, commonly known as the voice box.
- It's made of hyaline cartilage, a smooth and glassy type of cartilage.
- It is situated beneath the hyoid bone and connected to it via the thyrohyoid membrane.
Location and Function
The thyroid cartilage plays a crucial role in:
- Protecting the vocal cords and other delicate structures of the larynx.
- Supporting the structure of the larynx and helping maintain the airway.
- It is also associated with the "Adam's apple," which is more prominent in men due to the angle at which the two plates of cartilage meet.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Largest cartilage in the human body |
| Location | Larynx (voice box), below the hyoid bone |
| Composition | Hyaline cartilage |
| Attachment | Connected to hyoid bone via thyrohyoid membrane |
| Primary Function | Protection of vocal cords and supporting the larynx |
