Anatomy & Histology · single question
The facial nerve (CN VII) exits the skull through which foramen?
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Correct answer: B. Stylomastoid foramen
The facial nerve (CN VII) exits the skull through the stylomastoid foramen, located between the styloid process and the mastoid process of the temporal bone. After exiting through this foramen, CN VII enters the parotid gland and divides into its five terminal branches (temporal, zygomatic, buccal, marginal mandibular, cervical) to innervate the muscles of facial expression. Foramen rotundum transmits CN V2 (maxillary nerve). Foramen ovale transmits CN V3 (mandibular nerve). The jugular foramen transmits CN IX, X, and XI.
- A. Foramen spinosum transmits middle meningeal artery and nervus spinosus (V3 branch).
- B. CORRECT. Stylomastoid foramen = exit of CN VII. Between styloid and mastoid processes.
- C. External acoustic meatus is the ear canal — no cranial nerve exits through it.
- D. Foramen ovale transmits V3 (mandibular division of trigeminal) and accessory meningeal artery.
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