What does a swollen arytenoid and erythematous mean?

Swollen arytenoid refers to an inflammatory swelling of the arytenoid cartilage, which is a pair of small cartilages located at the back of the voice box (larynx). This swelling can obstruct the airway and cause difficulty breathing.

Erythematous means redness of the skin or mucous membranes due to inflammation or congestion. In the context of an arytenoid, it refers to the reddening of the arytenoid cartilage and the surrounding area, indicating inflammation.

Therefore, "swollen arytenoid and erythematous" together describe an inflamed and swollen arytenoid cartilage causing symptoms like airway obstruction and difficulty breathing. It may suggest underlying conditions such as laryngitis or other inflammatory conditions in the larynx.