Internal carotid nerve plexus

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Internal Carotid Nerve Plexus

File:Gray's Anatomy plate 839.png
The internal carotid nerve plexus, as illustrated in Gray's Anatomy.

The Internal Carotid Nerve Plexus is a network of nerves located in the carotid canal and along the internal carotid artery. It is primarily composed of sympathetic nerve fibers originating from the superior cervical ganglion.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The internal carotid nerve plexus is situated in the carotid canal, accompanying the internal carotid artery. It is formed by branches from the superior cervical ganglion and communicates with the abducent, trigeminal, and facial nerves. It also gives off caroticotympanic nerves to the tympanic cavity.

Function[edit | edit source]

The internal carotid nerve plexus carries sympathetic nerve fibers to the eye and its adnexa, contributing to the pupillary reflex and the regulation of blood flow in the retina and choroid.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Disruption or damage to the internal carotid nerve plexus can lead to a range of clinical conditions, including Horner's syndrome, which is characterized by ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), miosis (constriction of the pupil), and anhydrosis (lack of sweating) on the affected side of the face.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD