Unilateral damage to a cranial nerve is suspected because the tongue deviates to the right when it is protruded. Which cranial nerve is damaged?
A) Right hypoglossal
B) Left hypoglossal
C) Right glossopharyngeal
D) Left glossopharyngeal
E) Left facial

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hypoglossal nerve (cranial nerve XII) controls the muscles of the tongue. When it is damaged on one side (unilaterally), the tongue will deviate towards the side of the lesion when protruded because the muscles on the damaged side cannot contract effectively. Therefore, if the tongue deviates to the right, it indicates damage to the right hypoglossal nerve.

Unilateral Damage to a Cranial Nerve Is Suspected Because the Tongue