CN IX: Glossopharyngeal Nerve

Question 1

Emerges from?

Answer 1

medulla, behind olive

Question 2

Exits through?

Answer 2

jugular foramen

Question 3

Sensory function?

Answer 3

• general sensation from pharynx (oropharynx, specifically)

- general sensation from posterior 1/3 of tongue

Question 4

Special sensory function?

Answer 4

taste from posterior 1/3 of tongue

Question 5

Visceral sensation function?

Answer 5

• help regulate respiration activity

- help regulate cardiovascular activity

Question 6

Parasympathetic function?

Answer 6

innervate parotid gland

Question 7

Motor function?

Answer 7

stylopharyngeus muscle (swallowing)

Question 8

CN IX is one of four muscles with parasympathetic functions. What are the other three?

Answer 8

• oculomotor (CN III)
• facial (CN VII)
• vagus (CN X)

Question 9

Test?

Answer 9

• gag reflex

- say “ah”

Question 10

Pathology/disorder

Answer 10

isolated CN IX injuries are rare, but intense throat pain, radiating to ear