All intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the tongue are derived from occipital myotomes and are supplied by the hypoglossal nerve, with one exception. Which muscle escapes this rule?
- A Genioglossus
- B Styloglossus
- C Palatoglossus ✓
- D Verticalis linguae
Correct answer: C. Palatoglossus
Explanation
The muscles of the tongue migrate from occipital somites (myotomes) into the floor of the mouth, carrying their hypoglossal nerve supply with them; this applies to genioglossus, styloglossus, hyoglossus and all intrinsic muscles. Palatoglossus is the single exception because it develops in continuity with the soft palate musculature and is supplied by the vagus nerve via the pharyngeal plexus. This exception is repeatedly examined because it pairs with the rule that all palatal muscles except tensor veli palatini are vagal.
Reference: Snell's Clinical Anatomy by Regions, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.