The greater petrosal nerve carries parasympathetic fibers that synapse at which ganglion before reaching the lacrimal gland?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the NBEO Ocular Anatomy Posterior Segment and Cranial Nerves Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

The greater petrosal nerve carries parasympathetic fibers that synapse at which ganglion before reaching the lacrimal gland?

Explanation:
Parasympathetic preganglionic fibers destined for the lacrimal gland travel with the greater petrosal nerve. These fibers join the deep petrosal nerve to form the nerve of the pterygoid canal and synapse in the pterygopalatine ganglion. From there, postganglionic fibers hitchhike with branches of the trigeminal system (via the zygomatic nerve and lacrimal nerve) to reach the lacrimal gland and stimulate tear production. The other ganglia are associated with different targets: the otic ganglion serves the parotid gland, the ciliary ganglion innervates the pupillary sphincter and ciliary muscle, and the submandibular ganglion supplies the submandibular and sublingual glands.

Parasympathetic preganglionic fibers destined for the lacrimal gland travel with the greater petrosal nerve. These fibers join the deep petrosal nerve to form the nerve of the pterygoid canal and synapse in the pterygopalatine ganglion. From there, postganglionic fibers hitchhike with branches of the trigeminal system (via the zygomatic nerve and lacrimal nerve) to reach the lacrimal gland and stimulate tear production. The other ganglia are associated with different targets: the otic ganglion serves the parotid gland, the ciliary ganglion innervates the pupillary sphincter and ciliary muscle, and the submandibular ganglion supplies the submandibular and sublingual glands.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy