pterygopalatine ganglion

One of the four ganglia of the autonomic nervous system associated with the head and neck region. It is located deep in the pterygopalatine fossa and is intimately associated with the maxillary nerve. It lies distal and medial to the maxillary tuberosity. Its fibers supply the mucous membrane of the roof of the pharynx, tonsils, soft and hard palates, and nasal cavity. The mucous and serous secretions of all the mucous membranes in the oropharynx are also mediated by this ganglion.

A small parasympathetic ganglion in the upper pterygopalatine fossa whose postsynaptic fibers supply the lacrimal and nasal glands. Also called sphenopalatine ganglion.