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Anatomy & Histology · single question

CASE 11 — After a tongue incision for diagnostic purposes, the patient reports loss of taste. Which nerve was most likely damaged?

  1. CN V (Trigeminal nerve)
  2. CN IV (Trochlear nerve)
  3. CN VI (Abducens nerve)
  4. CN VII (Facial nerve — chorda tympani branch)
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Correct answer: D. CN VII (Facial nerve — chorda tympani branch)

  • A. CN V (trigeminal) provides GENERAL SENSATION to the anterior 2/3 of the tongue (via the lingual nerve) — not taste.
  • B. CN IV (trochlear) controls the superior oblique extraocular muscle — completely unrelated to taste.
  • C. CN VI (abducens) controls the lateral rectus extraocular muscle — completely unrelated to taste.
  • D. TASTE from the anterior 2/3 of the tongue is carried by the chorda tympani, a branch of the facial nerve (CN VII). The chorda tympani travels with the lingual nerve and is at risk during incisions or procedures on the tongue, floor of mouth, or submandibular region.

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