All intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the tongue are supplied by the hypoglossal nerve EXCEPT one, which is supplied by the vagus nerve via the pharyngeal plexus. Which muscle is this exception?
- A Genioglossus
- B Styloglossus
- C Palatoglossus ✓
- D Hyoglossus
Correct answer: C. Palatoglossus
Explanation
Palatoglossus is the only tongue muscle not supplied by CN XII. It arises from the palatine aponeurosis, is considered a muscle of the soft palate, and is supplied by the pharyngeal plexus carrying vagal fibers. Genioglossus, styloglossus and hyoglossus, along with all intrinsic muscles, receive hypoglossal supply, which is why hypoglossal lesions deviate the protruded tongue toward the side of the lesion.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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