Cranial nerve

Cranial nerves are the nerves that emerge directly from the brain (including the brainstem), in contrast to spinal nerves (which emerge from segments of the spinal cord). There are traditionally 12 pairs of cranial nerves, which are described with Roman numerals I–XII. Some of them have sensory functions, some are motor nerves, and some are both.

Anatomy

Cranial nerves emerge from the brain and brainstem. The superior and inferior surfaces of the brain are shown, excluding the brainstem. The nerves are color-coded according to whether they are sensory (green), motor (red) or both (yellow).

Function

Cranial nerves provide motor and sensory functions to structures within the head and neck. The sensory functions include smell, vision, taste, hearing, and feeling in the face. The motor functions include moving the eyes, mouth, and neck, and providing secretory functions to the glands.

Clinical significance

Damage to the cranial nerves can result in loss of function. This may be noticed by the person if it results in something obvious like drooping of the face or difficulty moving the eye, or it may be noticed by a healthcare provider during a physical examination.

See also

• Nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system
• Spinal nerve

External links

• Cranial Nerves at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)

Cranial nerve Resources
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