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Anatomy & Histology · single question

After an incisional biopsy on the posterior one-third of the tongue, the patient reports loss of taste. Which cranial nerve has been damaged?

  1. CN V (Trigeminal)
  2. CN VII (Facial) — chorda tympani
  3. CN IX (Glossopharyngeal)
  4. CN X (Vagus)
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. CN IX (Glossopharyngeal)

Taste innervation of the tongue: anterior 2/3  chorda tympani branch of CN VII (facial). Posterior 1/3  CN IX (glossopharyngeal). Root of the tongue and epiglottis  CN X (vagus). Because the biopsy is on the posterior 1/3, CN IX injury is responsible.

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