Infraorbital nerve

Infraorbital nerve is a branch of the maxillary nerve that supplies the area between the lower eyelid and upper lip. It is a part of the trigeminal nerve system, which is the largest cranial nerve and is responsible for sensory data such as tactition (touch), thermoception (temperature), and nociception (pain) from the facial area.

Etymology

The term "infraorbital" is derived from Latin, with "infra" meaning below and "orbital" referring to the eye socket.

Anatomy

The infraorbital nerve originates from the maxillary nerve, which is the second branch of the trigeminal nerve. It travels through the infraorbital canal, emerging at the infraorbital foramen to provide sensory innervation to the lower eyelid, side of the nose, and upper lip.

Clinical significance

Damage to the infraorbital nerve can result in paresthesia, a condition characterized by abnormal sensations in the skin such as tingling, numbness, or a feeling of "pins and needles". This can occur due to trauma, surgery, or pathological conditions such as tumors or infections.

Related terms

• Maxillary nerve: The second branch of the trigeminal nerve, from which the infraorbital nerve originates.
• Trigeminal nerve: The largest cranial nerve, responsible for sensory data from the facial area.
• Paresthesia: An abnormal sensation often caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, such as the infraorbital nerve.

Infraorbital nerve Resources
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