The posterior palatine nerve innervates which region?

• A. Tonsillar region
• B. Soft palate mucosa
• C. Hard palate near second molar
• D. Nasopharynx lining

Answer: (A)

The palatine nerves branch from the maxillary division via the pterygopalatine ganglion, with different branches targeting different parts of the palate. The lesser palatine nerves descend to supply the soft palate and the tissues around the palatine tonsils. The posterior palatine nerve is one of these branches, so its territory includes the palatine tonsil region. That’s why the tonsillar region is the best match for what this nerve innervates. The hard palate near the second molar is served mainly by the greater palatine nerve, the nasopharynx lining by other pharyngeal branches, and while the soft palate mucosa is indeed supplied by these nerves, the term posterior palatine nerve most specifically aligns with the tonsillar region.