The largest number of parasympathetic nervous system fibers are contained in which area of the body?

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To tackle this question, we examine where parasympathetic (craniosacral) fibers predominantly run and distribute.
Option a: Vagus nerve. The vagus nerve carries the majority of parasympathetic fibers to thoracic and abdominal viscera, innervating many organs via a wide distribution. It is well established as the main conduit for parasympathetic outflow.
Option b: Psoas. The psoas muscle is a deep hip flexor with innervation primarily from lumbar nerves; it is not a major carrier or reservoir for parasympathetic fibers. Parasympathetic fibers to the lower limb are minimal and not organized through the psoas.
Option c: Glutes. The gluteal region is supplied by somatic nerves and sympathetic fibers to the vasculature, but the parasympathetic distribution here is negligible. The major parasympathetic pathways do not run through the gluteal muscles.
Option d: Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a key brain region involved in autonomic regulation, endocrine control, and integrating autonomic output, but parasympathetic fibers do not reside in large numbers there as distinct peripheral fibers; rather, autonomic control is coordinated through brainstem and higher centers affecting efferent pathways.
In summary, among the listed areas, the vagus nerve stands out as the primary conduit for parasympathetic fibers, with extensive innervation of visceral organs, whereas the other options are not major reservoirs or highways for parasympathetic fibers.

HESM 286 (001) FALL 2025 Quiz 4 (Lectures 10-13)

The largest number of parasympathetic nervous system fibers are contained in which area of the body?

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