Where Does the Auriculotemporal Nerve Branch?

The auriculotemporal nerve is a branch of the mandibular nerve that provides sensation to several regions on the side of your head, including the jaw, ear, and scalp. For much of its course through the structures of your head and face, it runs along the superficial temporal artery

superficial temporal artery
In human anatomy, the superficial temporal artery is a major artery of the head. It arises from the external carotid artery when it splits into the superficial temporal artery and maxillary artery. Its pulse can be felt above the zygomatic arch, above and in front of the tragus of the ear.
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and vein.

What branch is the auriculotemporal nerve?

The auriculotemporal nerve is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve and supplies sensation to the tragus and helical crus.

Where does the auriculotemporal nerve originate?

The auriculotemporal nerve contains secretomotor, somatosensory, and vasomotor fibers. This nerve originates from the sensory nucleus of the trigeminal nerve in the pons. The mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve exits the cranium out of the foramen ovale.

Marcus Vance

Marcus Vance

Cybersecurity & Digital Privacy Researcher

Marcus Vance is a cybersecurity auditor and technology writer dedicated to educating the public about online safety, data privacy regulations, enterprise security, and emerging cyber threats.