The chorda tympani nerve, a branch of CN VII, provides preganglionic parasympathetic fibers to the submandibular and sublingual glands by synapsing in which ganglion?

• A Pterygopalatine ganglion
• B Submandibular ganglion ✓
• C Otic ganglion
• D Ciliary ganglion

Explanation

Chorda tympani (branch of CN VII) carries taste from anterior 2/3 of tongue and preganglionic parasympathetic fibers. It joins the lingual nerve (CN V3) and preganglionic fibers synapse in the submandibular ganglion suspended from the lingual nerve. Postganglionic fibers supply the submandibular and sublingual glands. The pterygopalatine ganglion receives fibers via the greater petrosal nerve (CN VII) for the lacrimal and nasal glands. The otic ganglion receives fibers from CN IX (lesser petrosal nerve) for the parotid gland.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.