Parasympathetic root of the ciliary ganglions

Parasympathetic root of ciliary ganglion

Plan of oculomotor nerve. (Parasympathetic root labeled at center right.)
Latin	radix parasympathica ganglii ciliaris

The Parasympathetic root of ciliary ganglion is a component of the oculomotor nerve (III), which originates from the Edinger-Westphal nucleus in the midbrain. It is responsible for the parasympathetic innervation of the eye.

Structure

The parasympathetic root of the ciliary ganglion is a short, delicate filament, which arises from the Edinger-Westphal nucleus in the midbrain. It joins with the oculomotor nerve and runs along its inferior branch. It then synapses in the ciliary ganglion, an ovoid parasympathetic ganglion located in the posterior orbit.

Function

The parasympathetic root of the ciliary ganglion provides parasympathetic innervation to the eye. It is responsible for the constriction of the pupil (miosis) and the accommodation of the lens for near vision.

Clinical significance

Damage to the parasympathetic root of the ciliary ganglion can result in Ophthalmoplegia, a condition characterized by paralysis or weakness of the eye muscles. This can lead to symptoms such as double vision and drooping eyelids.

See also

• Ciliary ganglion
• Oculomotor nerve
• Edinger-Westphal nucleus