Which option best describes the pharyngeal plexus composition?

• A. It contains CN IX and CN X only
• B. It contains CN IX, CN X, and sympathetic fibers
• C. It contains CN XII
• D. It contains CN XI

Answer: (B)

The pharyngeal plexus is formed on the pharyngeal wall by contributions from the glossopharyngeal nerve and the vagus nerve, with postganglionic sympathetic fibers from the superior cervical ganglion traveling along with these nerves. This combination explains why the best description includes the glossopharyngeal nerve, the vagus nerve, and sympathetic fibers. The plexus provides motor input to most pharyngeal muscles (via the vagus) and sensory/mucosal innervation (glossopharyngeal), while sympathetic fibers accompany the network to reach vessels and mucosa. Nerves that don’t contribute to the plexus, such as the hypoglossal nerve or the spinal accessory nerve, are not part of its composition.