Chorda Tympani Nerve — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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EasyAnatomy (Head & Neck)Chorda Tympani NerveMFDS Part 1

Which branch of the facial nerve carries taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?

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Correct answer: C — Chorda tympani

The chorda tympani is a branch of the facial nerve (VII) that carries taste fibres from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. It joins the lingual nerve, and its taste fibres then travel with that nerve to the tongue. The lingual nerve itself is a branch of V3 and principally supplies general sensation, including touch, pain and temperature, to this region. The glossopharyngeal nerve supplies taste and general sensation to the posterior third. The vagus supplies taste around the epiglottis, while the greater petrosal nerve carries taste fibres from the palate and parasympathetic fibres associated with the lacrimal and nasal glands.

Reference: McManus LJ, Dawes PJD, Stringer MD. Clinical anatomy of the chorda tympani: a systematic review. Journal of Laryngology & Otology. 2011;125(11):1101-1108. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21810294/