A student palpates the mastoid process. Which cranial nerve exits the skull just medial to this landmark?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Accessory nerve (CN XI)
The accessory nerve exits the skull via the jugular foramen, which lies medial to the mastoid process. This region is clinically important in neck dissections.
Keep practicing
More Surface Anatomy and Landmarks questions
- A physician palpates the anatomical snuffbox. Tenderness here often indicates fracture of which bone?
- A clinician palpates over McBurney's point. This surface landmark is used to evaluate inflammation of which structure?
- The angle of Louis (sternal angle) corresponds to which anatomical plane?
- A clinician palpates the popliteal pulse. Which positioning is best for locating this pulse?
- A patient complains of pain when pressure is applied 2 cm inferior to the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS). Which nerve passes near thi…
- The transverse thoracic plane is used as a surface reference in thoracic anatomy. Which structure is located at this plane?