The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review encompassing the syndromes associated with the lower cranial<\/p>\n
nerves (LCNs). We will discuss the anatomy of some of these syndromes and the historical contributors after whom they were<\/p>\n
named. The LCNs can be affected individually or in combination, since the cranial nerves at this level share their courses through<\/p>\n
the jugular foramen and hypoglossal canal and the extracranial spaces. Numerous alterations affecting them have been described<\/p>\n
in the literature, but much remains to be discovered on this topic. This paper will highlight some of the subtle differences among<\/p>\n
these syndromes. Symptoms and signs that have localization value for LCN lesions include impaired speech, deglutition, sensory<\/p>\n
functions, alterations in taste, autonomic dysfunction, neuralgic pain, dysphagia, head or neck pain, cardiac or gastrointestinal<\/p>\n
compromise, and weakness of the tongue, trapezius, or sternocleidomastoid muscles. To assess the manifestations of LCN<\/p>\n
lesions correctly, precise knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the area is required. Treatments currently used for these<\/p>\n
conditions will also be addressed here. Effective treatments are available in several such cases, but a precondition for complete<\/p>\n
recovery is a correct and swift diagnosis.<\/p>\n