Which anatomical structure receives sensory or secretomotor innervation from the glossopharyngeal nerve_____________?
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Answer: A. Stylopharyngeus
Explanation
The stylopharyngeus muscle receives its exclusive sensory or motor innervation from the glossopharyngeal nerve. Cranial nerve nine supplies motor fibers to this specific pharyngeal elevator. No other cranial nerve contributes motor innervation to the stylopharyngeus muscle. The glossopharyngeal nerve is the ninth cranial nerve exiting through the jugular foramen. It provides general sensation to the posterior pharynx and posterior third of the tongue. The stylopharyngeus muscle originates from the styloid process and inserts into the pharynx.
Neurological exams test the gag reflex to assess the function of the glossopharyngeal nerve. Pharyngeal elevation during swallowing depends on the action of the stylopharyngeus muscle. Lesions of cranial nerve nine can result in swallowing difficulties and reduced pharyngeal sensation. Palatophary negus is supplied by the pharyngeal plexus rather than the glossopharyngeal nerve. Geniohyoid muscle is innervated by the first cervical nerve via the hypoglossal nerve. Genioglossus muscle receives motor innervation from the hypoglossal nerve for tongue movement.
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