Cranial nerve testing of the face and oral cavity Flashcards
How would you test the function of the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve, CNV?
Supplies skin from the top of the head to the upper eyelids and a strip down the median line of the nose. It supplies the conjunctiva that covers the inner surfaces of the eyelids, the sclera, and is continuous with the corneal epithelium. Nasal mucosa and frontal sinus.
Use pins provided to gently test sensory function. May also use cotton wool.
How would you test the function of the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve, CNV?
Supplies skin of anterior temple and middle part of face as far down as the corners of the mouth. Supplies upper teeth, lip, gums and the roof of the mouth.
Use pins provided to gently test sensory function. May also use cotton wool.
How would you test the function of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve, CNV?
Supplies a strip of skin running from middle part of temple then anterior to the ear and down to the chin. Supplies lower teeth, gums and lip, lining of cheeks, floor of mouth and buccal part (anterior two-thirds) of tongue.
Use pins provided to gently test sensory function. May also use cotton wool.
Ask patient to clench their jaw and palpate masseter and temporalis muscles to test motor function. Jaw jerk reflex can be performed by placing index finger on chin and striking with a tendon hammer.
How would you test the motor function of the facial nerve?
Ask patient to raise their eyebrows, squeeze their eyes shut against resistance, puff out their cheeks, and reveal the teeth. Look for asymmetry.
How would you test the function of the glossopharyngeal nerve?
Using a tongue depressor on the back of the tongue or pharyngeal arches to evoke the gag reflex.
How would you test the motor function of the vagus nerve?
Ask the patient to open their mouth and say ‘aah’. This depresses the tongue and raises the uvula and soft palate. Observe for any lateral deviation of the uvula (away from lesioned side).
How would you test the motor function of the hypoglossal nerve?
Ask the patient to protract (stick out) their tongue and observe any deviation from the midline (towards the lesioned side).
