Question

A patient presents with swelling under the left ear lobule and complains of pain. Which of the following structures is the likely cause of the pain?

• A. Facial nerve
• B. Greater auricular nerve
• C. Auriculotemporal nerve
• D. Investing layer of deep cervical fascia

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The patient is experiencing swelling and pain under the left ear lobule. To determine the structure likely causing this pain, we must consider the anatomy of the region involved.

The greater auricular nerve is responsible for sensation in this area. It emerges from the cervical plexus, specifically from the anterior rami of cervical spinal nerves C2 and C3, and provides sensory innervation to the skin over the parotid gland, the angle of the mandible, and the ear lobule.

Therefore, when swelling occurs in this region, such as in the case of an inflamed parotid gland or another nearby structure, the greater auricular nerve is most likely to be the source of pain due to the pressure or irritation it experiences.

Thus the correct answer is: Greater auricular nerve.