What provides the sensory supply of the skin over the temple of the face?

Sensory Supply of the Skin Over the Temple of the Face

The skin over the temple of the face is primarily innervated by the auriculotemporal branch of the mandibular division (V3) of the trigeminal nerve. 1, 2

Trigeminal Nerve Anatomy and Facial Sensory Distribution

The trigeminal nerve (CN V) is the largest cranial nerve and provides the majority of sensory innervation to the face through its three divisions:

1. Ophthalmic division (V1): Supplies the upper part of the face including the forehead, upper eyelid, and anterior scalp
2. Maxillary division (V2): Supplies the midface region including the cheeks, upper lip, and lateral nose
3. Mandibular division (V3): Supplies the lower face including the lower jaw, temple region, and part of the external ear 1, 2

Specific Innervation of the Temple Region

The temple region specifically receives sensory innervation from:

• Auriculotemporal nerve: A branch of the mandibular division (V3) that provides the primary sensory supply to the skin over the temple 1, 2
• Zygomaticotemporal nerve: A branch of the maxillary division (V2) that may contribute to a small portion of the anterior temple region

Clinical Significance

Understanding the sensory innervation of the temple is important for:

1. Diagnostic purposes: Sensory disturbances in the temple region may indicate pathology involving the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve

2. Procedural applications:

   • Local anesthesia for dermatologic or cosmetic procedures in the temple area
   • Nerve blocks targeting the auriculotemporal nerve for pain management
   • Surgical approaches to the temporal region 2

3. Pain syndromes: Trigeminal neuralgia affecting the mandibular division can manifest with pain in the temple region 1

Imaging Considerations

When evaluating pathology involving the sensory innervation of the temple:

• MRI is the preferred modality for investigating the trigeminal nerve and its branches 1
• CT is useful for evaluating bony anatomy, skull base, and neural foramina 1
• High-resolution techniques should be employed to visualize the nerve branches adequately 1

Common Pathologies Affecting Temple Sensation

Sensory abnormalities in the temple region may result from:

• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Skull base tumors affecting the mandibular division
• Trauma to the temporal region
• Inflammatory or infectious conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve
• Vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve or its branches 1

Understanding the precise sensory innervation of the temple region is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of conditions affecting this area of the face.