Neural crest cells originating from the rhombencephalic segments (rhombomeres 1 and 2) migrate into which pharyngeal arch and give rise to which skeletal elements?

• A Second pharyngeal arch; stapes, styloid process and lesser cornu of hyoid
• B Third pharyngeal arch; greater cornu and lower body of hyoid
• C Fourth pharyngeal arch; thyroid cartilage
• D First pharyngeal arch; malleus, incus and Meckel's cartilage derivatives ✓

Explanation

Neural crest cells from rhombomeres 1 and 2 migrate into the first pharyngeal arch (mandibular arch). They condense to form Meckel's cartilage, which gives rise to the malleus and incus (ossicles) and the anterior ligament of malleus. The mandible and maxilla form by membranous ossification around Meckel's cartilage. Second arch (rhombomere 4) neural crest forms Reichert's cartilage: stapes, styloid process, stylohyoid ligament, and lesser cornu of hyoid.

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

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.