Object numberRCSHC/P 1243
Scientific nameHomo sapiens
CollectionHunterian
CategoryWet preparations
Object nameLaryngopharangeal Structures, Diphtheria, Morbid Anatomy of the Larynx, Mounted wet tissue
DescriptionThe larynx with the surrounding tissues showing the effects of diphtheria.
The mucous membrane lining the larynx can be seen to be severely swollen by the infection.
Diphtheria was one of the most common infections affecting the larynx, with surgical intervention needed to relieve the blockage of the upper airway. This case shows the inflamed membrane of the larynx to have extended far down the trachea.
Production date Estimated 1760 - Estimated 1793
Preparator
Owner/user
presented
Physical Location
LocationOn display in the Hunterian Museum, Room 4: The Long Gallery
Physical Information
Physical descriptionWet preparation of tissue mounted in a circular glass jar with glass lid.
Materialglass (material)
Dimensions
Whole height: 183 mm
Whole diameter: 111 mm
Whole weight: 1860 g
Whole diameter: 111 mm
Whole weight: 1860 g
Bibliography
SourceProger 1966-1972
Vol. 2, page 171.
TranscriptThe larynx and adjacent parts of an adult, who died with "putrid sore throat".
The mucous membrane lining the larynx is swollen, and a thin imperfect layer of diphtheritic membrane is deposited loosely on its surface.
SourceClift 1830 Part 1
NotesCatalogue number 1070
TranscriptThe larynx of a person who died of a putrid sore-throat. [The larynx is covered with a thick layer of coagulated lymph. The thyroid gland is much enlarged; though apparently unconnected with the cause of death.]