accessory nerve palsy
Last reviewed 10/2021
Accessory nerve palsy is paralysis of the muscles supplied by the accessory nerve, cranial nerve XI.
Clinical features include:
- possible loss in function and muscle mass in the trapezius and the sternomastoids
During the neurological examination the function of the accessory nerve is assessed as follows:
- sternocleidomastoid - turning of the head against a force applied by the examiner
- trapezius - the ability to shrug against a downward force applied the examiner