Imaging of the lower cranial nerves

This article discusses the normal anatomy and pathologic entities that involve the lower cranial nerves. Normal anatomy is described and correlated with line diagrams and MR images. Distinct pathologic processes that involve the individual nerves along their various components are discussed. The imaging characteristics of these lesions are provided. Knowledge of the nuclear origins, the normal course of the cranial nerves, their functional components, and the imaging characteristics of pathologic lesions involving the nerves are important in any evaluation of cranial neuropathy.