The lesser splanchnic nerve carries preganglionic sympathetic fibres from spinal segments T10 to T11. These fibres synapse primarily in which ganglion?
- A Celiac ganglion
- B Inferior mesenteric ganglion
- C Superior mesenteric ganglion ✓
- D Aorticorenal ganglion
Correct answer: C. Superior mesenteric ganglion
Explanation
The three thoracic splanchnic nerves show a consistent pattern: the greater splanchnic nerve (T5-T9) relays in the celiac ganglion, the lesser splanchnic nerve (T10-T11) pierces the diaphragm with the sympathetic trunk and relays chiefly in the superior mesenteric ganglion, and the least splanchnic nerve (T12) reaches the aorticorenal ganglion. Option D belongs specifically to the least splanchnic pathway, and the inferior mesenteric ganglion receives fibres mainly from lumbar splanchnic nerves.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
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