Auricular branch

Auricular Branch

The auricular branch is a term used in anatomy to refer to a specific branch of a nerve or artery that supplies or innervates the ear. There are several auricular branches in the human body, each associated with different nerves and arteries.

Auricular Branch of Vagus Nerve[edit | edit source]

The auricular branch of the vagus nerve (also known as Arnold's nerve) is a branch of the vagus nerve that provides sensory innervation to a part of the external ear. It is named after Friedrich Arnold, a German anatomist who first described it.

Auricular Branch of Posterior Auricular Artery[edit | edit source]

The auricular branch of the posterior auricular artery is a branch of the posterior auricular artery that supplies blood to the posterior part of the ear and the adjacent area of the scalp.

Auricular Branch of Occipital Artery[edit | edit source]

The auricular branch of the occipital artery is a branch of the occipital artery that supplies blood to the posterior part of the ear.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The auricular branches play a significant role in various clinical conditions. For instance, irritation or damage to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve can lead to a condition known as Arnold's ear-cough reflex, where stimulation of the external ear causes a cough.