Start practicing

Anatomy & Histology · single question

All of the following provide sensory innervation to the tongue EXCEPT:

  1. Vagus nerve (CN X) — epiglottis/tongue base region
  2. Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) — posterior 1/3
  3. Lingual nerve (CN V3) — anterior 2/3 general sensation
  4. Facial nerve (CN VII) trunk — direct sensory to tongue
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. Facial nerve (CN VII) trunk — direct sensory to tongue

  • A. Incorrect — CN X IS sensory to the extreme tongue base/epiglottis region.
  • B. Incorrect — CN IX IS sensory to posterior 1/3 (both taste and general sensation).
  • C. Incorrect — lingual nerve IS sensory to the anterior 2/3 of the tongue (touch, pain, temperature).
  • D. Correct. The FACIAL NERVE TRUNK (CN VII) does NOT directly provide general sensory innervation to the tongue mucosa. CN VII carries TASTE via the chorda tympani branch — but the facial nerve itself is classified as a motor nerve to the face + taste/parasympathetics via chorda tympani. It is not a direct general sensory nerve of the tongue.

Practice Anatomy & Histology questions Anatomy & Histology study notes

More Anatomy & Histology practice questions