Anatomy Exam Cranial Nerves and Foramina 3

Question 1

Which cranial nerve exits through the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone?

Accepted Answer

CN I (Olfactory)

Answer

The olfactory nerve (CN I) consists of multiple fila olfactoria that pass through the perforations of the cribriform plate to reach the olfactory bulb.

Question 2

A tumor compressing the jugular foramen would most likely affect which set of cranial nerves?

Accepted Answer

CN IX, X, XI

Answer

The jugular foramen transmits CN IX (glossopharyngeal), CN X (vagus), and CN XI (accessory nerve), along with the sigmoid sinus becoming the internal jugular vein.

Question 3

The optic canal transmits which two structures?

Accepted Answer

Optic nerve and ophthalmic artery

Answer

The optic canal transmits the optic nerve (CN II) and the ophthalmic artery, which is a branch of the internal carotid artery.

Question 4

Which cranial nerve provides motor innervation to the tongue muscles (except palatoglossus)?

Accepted Answer

CN XII (Hypoglossal)

Answer

The hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) innervates all intrinsic and most extrinsic tongue muscles; palatoglossus is innervated by CN X.

Question 5

Which foramen is located in the posterior cranial fossa and transmits the hypoglossal nerve?

Accepted Answer

Hypoglossal canal

Answer

The hypoglossal canal (anterior condylar canal) is located in the occipital bone above the occipital condyles and transmits CN XII.

Anatomy Exam Practice Test

Anatomy Exam Practice Test

Anatomy Exam Cranial Nerves and Foramina 3