Tympanic nerve

Tympanic Nerve

The Tympanic Nerve (also known as Jacobson's nerve) is a branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve that is responsible for supplying parasympathetic fibers to the parotid gland via the otic ganglion. It is named after the German anatomist, Ludwig Levin Jacobson.

Etymology

The term "tympanic" is derived from the Greek word "tympanon," which means drum. This is in reference to the nerve's connection to the tympanic cavity of the ear. The nerve is also named after Ludwig Levin Jacobson, a German anatomist who first described it in detail.

Anatomy

The tympanic nerve arises from the inferior ganglion of the glossopharyngeal nerve. It then descends and enters the temporal bone through the tympanic canaliculus. Inside the tympanic cavity, it forms the tympanic plexus, which gives off lesser petrosal nerve.

Function

The tympanic nerve carries parasympathetic preganglionic fibers from the glossopharyngeal nerve to the otic ganglion. The postganglionic fibers then proceed to the parotid gland, where they stimulate the secretion of saliva.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the tympanic nerve can result in a decrease in salivation, leading to a condition known as xerostomia. This can cause difficulty in swallowing and speaking, and increase the risk of oral infections.

Related Terms

• Glossopharyngeal nerve
• Parotid gland
• Otic ganglion
• Tympanic cavity
• Temporal bone
• Xerostomia

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