Bilateral lesion of the flocculus and nodulus of the cerebellum would most specifically impair which function?

• A Fine coordination of limb movements on the ipsilateral side
• B Planning and initiation of voluntary movement
• C Smooth pursuit eye movements generated in the vermis
• D Vestibulo-ocular reflex suppression and balance in response to head movement ✓

Explanation

The flocculonodular lobe (vestibulocerebellum) receives direct input from the vestibular nuclei and semicircular canals and is critical for vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) adaptation and postural stability during head movement. Damage causes truncal ataxia, nystagmus, and impaired VOR suppression. Limb coordination involves the cerebellar hemispheres (neocerebellum). Motor planning involves the pontocerebellum (dentate nucleus). The vermis is involved in gait and eye movements but the specific VOR suppression is flocculonodular.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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