Studies on the Nerve Pathways Involved in the Laryngeal Reflex (laryngospasm) En the Cat

The receptor sites and nerve pathways involved in the reflex production of laryngospasm have been investigated in the cat. The trigeminal nerves and the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerves were shown to provide an afferent pathway for the reflex when the nasopharynx and larynx were exposed to ether vapour. Evidence was obtained suggesting that the recurrent laryngeal nerves may form part of the afferent innervation of the trachea involved in this reflex response. The vagus nerves provide an afferent pathway from receptors in the trachea and lungs.