Posterior auricular nerve
Nerve of the head
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Structure
The posterior auricular nerve arises from the facial nerve (CN VII). It is the first branch outside of the skull. This origin is close to the stylomastoid foramen. It runs upward in front of the mastoid process. It is joined by a branch from the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (CN X). It communicates with the posterior branch of the great auricular nerve, as well as with the lesser occipital nerve.
As it ascends between the external acoustic meatus and mastoid process it divides into auricular and occipital branches.
- The auricular branch travels to the posterior auricular muscle and the intrinsic muscles on the cranial surface of the auricule.
- The occipital branch, the larger branch, passes backward along the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone to the occipitalis muscle.
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Function
The posterior auricular nerve supplies the posterior auricular muscle, and the intrinsic muscles of the auricle. It gives sensation to the auricle. It also supplies the occipitalis muscle.
Clinical significance
Nerve testing
The posterior auricular nerve can be tested by contraction of the occipitalis muscle, and by sensation in the auricle. This testing is rarely performed.
Biopsy
The posterior auricular nerve can be biopsied. This can be used to test for leprosy, which can be important in diagnosis.