Which of the following correctly describes the roots of the ciliary ganglion?

• A Sensory root from the maxillary nerve, motor root from the facial nerve, sympathetic root from the deep petrosal nerve
• B Sensory root from the frontal nerve, motor root from the superior division of the oculomotor nerve, sympathetic root from the superficial petrosal nerve
• C Sensory root from the lacrimal nerve, motor root from the zygomatic nerve, sympathetic root from the pterygopalatine ganglion
• D Sensory root from the nasociliary nerve, motor (parasympathetic) root from the inferior division of the oculomotor nerve, sympathetic root from the internal carotid plexus ✓

Explanation

The ciliary ganglion receives three roots: a sensory root from the nasociliary branch of the ophthalmic nerve carrying corneal and scleral sensation, a parasympathetic motor root from the inferior division of the oculomotor nerve containing preganglionic fibres from the Edinger Westphal nucleus, and a sympathetic root from the internal carotid plexus. Postganglionic fibres from all three components reach the eyeball through the short ciliary nerves.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.