What Causes A Movable Bump At The Back Of The Epiglottis?

Posted on Wed, 27 Jul 2022

Question: Hi. I'm a 37 yo male. No health issues. I have been able to see my epiglottis in the mirror, however I just noticed something else beyond the epiglottis lower on the back of the throat that appears to be moving and can appear or disappear. Found a pic of a laryngoscopy only and circled the area in black that I think I may be able to see in my throat occasionally. Is that even possible or is this something else I should be concerned about?

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Normal anatomy

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Epiglottis can be visualized directly in 1% of the adults. The laryngoscopy picture you attached here shows normal anatomy. The encircled area is the area of mucosal folds (aryepiglottic folds) and cartilages covered by mucosa.

It is completely normal. There is nothing to be worried about.

Hope this answers your question. Please let me know if you need further clarifications.
Regards,
Dr. Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (8 minutes later)

Thank you. Just to be clear, the attached pic is not mine, but wanted to show the area that I can visualize in the mirror. Based on your response, I can visualize the very top of the mucosal folds (aryepiglottic folds) in the mirror. I wanted to be sure that is normal.

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It is normal. Nothing to be worried

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Since you can view the epiglottis, it is completely normal to view the epiglottic folds and surrounding cartilages. You can relax. There is nothing to be worried about.

Regards
Dr. Lekshmi

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee