Cranial nerve lesions

Abstract This chapter covers the basic anatomical knowledge of the cranial nerves: olfactory (I) nerve, optic (II) nerve, oculomotor (III) nerve, trochlear (IV) nerve, trigeminal (V) nerve, abducens (VI) nerve, facial (VII) nerve, vestibulocochlear (VIII) nerve, glossopharyngeal (IX) nerve, vagus (X) nerve, accessory (XI) nerve, and the hypoglossal (XII) nerve. The chapter discusses each nerve, its main branches, and its main functions. It then goes on to outline clinical signs arising from lesions to these nerves, and discusses the common causes for these lesions. Finally, it covers conditions that can affect any cranial nerve. All of the information maps to the RCEM Basic Sciences syllabus, making it relevant to Emergency Medicine practice and the examination.