Pharyngeal glands

The pharyngeal glands are numerous small mucous glands located within the submucosa of the pharyngeal wall. They are distributed throughout the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.

Structurally, most pharyngeal glands are mucous glands, although mixed seromucous glands may also be present, particularly in regions associated with respiratory epithelium.

The pharyngeal glands are especially well developed in the nasopharynx, where they support the functions of the respiratory mucosa by humidifying inspired air. In the oropharynx and laryngopharynx, glandular secretions reduce friction during the passage of food and contribute to mucosal protection against mechanical trauma.

The ducts of these pharyngeal glands open directly onto the mucosal surface of the pharynx. Histologically, they are embedded within connective tissue beneath the epithelial lining and are associated with abundant lymphoid tissue forming part of Waldeyer's ring.