The cavernous sinus receives venous blood from multiple sources. Which structures pass WITHIN the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus (within the dural layers)?

• A CN III (oculomotor), CN IV (trochlear), and ophthalmic division of CN V (V1) — from superior to inferior
• B CN III, CN IV, CN V1, CN V2 — within the wall; CN VI and ICA — within the sinus itself ✓
• C CN VI (abducens) and the internal carotid artery with its sympathetic plexus
• D All cranial nerves III through VI pass within the sinus cavity

Explanation

The cavernous sinus has a complex arrangement: within the lateral dural wall (from superior to inferior) pass CN III, CN IV, CN V1 (ophthalmic), and CN V2 (maxillary). In contrast, the internal carotid artery (with pericarotid sympathetic plexus) and CN VI (abducens) pass within the actual cavernous sinus cavity (surrounded by venous blood). This distinction is clinically important: CN VI and ICA are most at risk from sinus thrombosis (they are bathed directly in the sinus); in cavernous sinus syndrome, all structures can be affected. This is tested frequently in NEET PG.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.