Abstract
Neuropathies of the oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens nerves may present with isolated or complex neurologic findings. An understanding of the anatomy of these cranial nerves as they traverse the brainstem, basilar cisterns, and cavernous sinus on their way to the orbit can assist in localizing the suggested site of pathology and help to focus imaging protocols. Differential diagnostic possibilities for specific anatomic locations are reviewed.
MeSH terms
-
Abducens Nerve / anatomy & histology*
-
Abducens Nerve / pathology
-
Abducens Nerve Diseases / congenital
-
Abducens Nerve Diseases / diagnosis*
-
Central Nervous System Neoplasms / diagnosis
-
Hemangioma, Cavernous, Central Nervous System / diagnosis
-
Humans
-
Intracranial Aneurysm / diagnosis
-
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
-
Oculomotor Nerve / anatomy & histology*
-
Oculomotor Nerve / pathology
-
Oculomotor Nerve Diseases / congenital
-
Oculomotor Nerve Diseases / diagnosis*
-
Trochlear Nerve / anatomy & histology*
-
Trochlear Nerve / pathology
-
Trochlear Nerve Diseases / congenital
-
Trochlear Nerve Diseases / diagnosis*