Question

module: nervous
topic: structures / type: combination

what structure is highlighted?

a. von ebners glands
b. taste bud
c. s4 dermatome
d. vallate papilla
e. spinal cord

Explanation:

Identify the histological specimen

Using the Tongue Histology and Vallate Papilla knowledge points
The image shows a high-power histological section of a tongue papilla, specifically a vallate papilla (circumvallate papilla), characterized by its large dome-shaped structure surrounded by a deep circular furrow (trench).

Analyze the highlighted region

Using the Tongue Histology and Taste Buds knowledge points
The green-shaded structures located deep in the lamina propria beneath the trench of the vallate papilla are serous salivary glands. These are von Ebner's glands (gustatory glands), which secrete a watery fluid into the cleft to flush out food particles and allow taste buds to register new gustatory stimuli.

Correlate with options

Using the Tongue Histology knowledge point

• A. von Ebner's glands: Correct, as these are the serous glands highlighted in green at the base of the furrow.
• B. Taste bud: Incorrect; taste buds are located in the lateral epithelial walls of the papilla, not deep in the connective tissue.
• C. S4 Dermatome: Incorrect; unrelated anatomical structure.
• D. Vallate papilla: Incorrect; the papilla itself is the entire dome-shaped mucosal projection, not just the green-highlighted basal glands.
• E. Spinal cord: Incorrect; unrelated tissue.

Answer:

• (A) von Ebner's glands (Correct answer)
• (B) Taste bud
• (C) S4 Dermatome
• (D) Vallate papilla
• (E) Spinal cord