Muscle
Palatoglossus
Links the soft palate to the tongue
High-yield
Palatoglossus is the motor-nerve exception among the usual tongue muscles: it receives CN X through the pharyngeal plexus, rather than CN XII.
Overview
Palatoglossus descends from the soft palate into the side of the tongue. The mucosa over it forms the palatoglossal arch, or anterior tonsillar pillar. Its contractions help regulate the opening between the mouth and oropharynx.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Inferior surface of the palatine aponeurosis
- Insertion
- Posterolateral tongue, blending with intrinsic fibers
- Innervation
- Vagus nerve (CN X), through the pharyngeal plexus
- Action
- Raises the posterior tongue and can lower the soft palate, narrowing the oropharyngeal opening
- Blood supply
- Ascending palatine branch of the facial artery, with lingual and tonsillar arterial contributions
Clinical correlation
The palatine tonsil occupies the recess behind the palatoglossal arch and in front of the palatopharyngeal arch. These pillars provide useful landmarks for oropharyngeal examination.
Frequently asked questions
What does the palatoglossus do?
The palatoglossus raises the posterior tongue and can lower the soft palate, narrowing the oropharyngeal opening.
What nerve innervates the palatoglossus?
The palatoglossus is innervated by the vagus nerve (CN X), through the pharyngeal plexus.
Where does the palatoglossus attach?
Origin: Inferior surface of the palatine aponeurosis. Insertion: Posterolateral tongue, blending with intrinsic fibers.
What is the blood supply of the palatoglossus?
The palatoglossus is supplied by the ascending palatine branch of the facial artery, with lingual and tonsillar arterial contributions.