2025 07 SAQ Cranial Nerve VII

Describe the motor and sensory functions of the facial nerve.

Differentiate between an upper motor neuron (UMN) and lower motor neuron (LMN) lesion of the facial nerve based on clinical findings.

List the five terminal motor branches of the facial nerve after it exits the stylomastoid foramen.

A patient cannot close their left eye tightly and has drooping of the left side of their mouth. The forehead is also affected. What is the most likely type of lesion, and what is the diagnosis?

How would you clinically assess for facial asymmetry in a patient during cranial nerve examination?

Name two parasympathetic functions mediated by the facial nerve and how you would assess them clinically.

What is the significance of hyperacusis in facial nerve palsy?

What are common causes of facial nerve palsy?

Outline how you would examine taste sensation supplied by the facial nerve.

Explain why forehead sparing occurs in upper motor neuron lesions of the facial nerve.