Zygomatic nerve

Zygomatic nerve

The Zygomatic nerve is a branch of the maxillary nerve, which is itself a branch of the trigeminal nerve. It is responsible for innervating the skin on the cheek and the upper lip. The term "zygomatic" is derived from the Greek word "zygon", which means "yoke". This is in reference to the zygomatic bone's arch-like shape, which resembles a yoke used in farming.

Structure

The zygomatic nerve arises in the Pterygopalatine ganglion, also known as the Meckel's ganglion. It enters the orbit through the inferior orbital fissure, and divides into two branches: the zygomaticotemporal nerve and the zygomaticofacial nerve.

The zygomaticotemporal nerve passes through the zygomaticotemporal foramen, and supplies the skin on the side of the forehead. The zygomaticofacial nerve passes through the zygomaticofacial foramen, and supplies the skin on the prominence of the cheek.

Function

The zygomatic nerve carries sensory information from the skin on the cheek and the upper lip to the brain. This includes sensations of touch, temperature, and pain.

Clinical significance

Damage to the zygomatic nerve can result in loss of sensation in the areas it supplies. This can occur as a result of trauma, surgery, or certain medical conditions such as Bell's palsy or trigeminal neuralgia.

See also

• Maxillary nerve
• Trigeminal nerve
• Zygomatic bone
• Zygomaticofacial nerve
• Zygomaticotemporal nerve

References

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