The derivatives of the second pharyngeal arch (Reichert's cartilage) include which of the following structures in the adult?

• A Malleus, incus, and styloid process
• B Stapes, lower body and greater cornu of hyoid
• C Thyroid cartilage and epiglottis
• D Stapes, styloid process, upper part of hyoid body (lesser cornu and upper body) ✓

Explanation

The second pharyngeal arch (Reichert's cartilage) gives rise to: stapes (ossicle), styloid process of temporal bone, stylohyoid ligament, lesser cornu and upper part of body of hyoid bone. The first arch (Meckel's cartilage) gives incus and malleus, spine of sphenoid, and mandibular condyle. The third arch gives lower body and greater cornu of hyoid. The fourth arch gives thyroid cartilage. The sixth arch gives arytenoid, corniculate, and cuneiform cartilages. Muscles of the second arch (facial expression) are innervated by CN VII (facial nerve).

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.