The facial (VII) nerve and vestibulocochlear (VIII) nerve both travel through the facial canal of the petrous portion of the temporal bone. A tumor located in this canal will potentially interfere with the special sense(s) of:
A) taste
B) hearing
C) equilibrium
D) All of these choices

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The facial nerve (VII) is responsible for taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, while the vestibulocochlear nerve (VIII) is involved in hearing and equilibrium. A tumor in the facial canal affecting both nerves could impair all these special senses.

The Facial (VII) Nerve and Vestibulocochlear (VIII) Nerve Both Travel