A patient who received a blow to the side of the skull exhibits the following signs and symptoms on that side of the face: he is unable to close his eye, and the corner of his mouth droops. Which cranial nerve has been damaged?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The facial nerve innervates the muscles of facial expression, including the orbicularis oculi (which allows us to close our eyes) and the muscles of the lower face (which allow us to smile, frown, and pout). Damage to this nerve can lead to the inability to close one eye and drooping of the corner of the mouth. Therefore, facial nerve is the most likely cranial nerve to be damaged in this scenario.

A Patient Who Received a Blow to the Side of the Skull