The antitragicus is a small muscle on the outer surface of the antitragus, the bump of cartilage opposite the tragus just above the earlobe. Its fibres run upward and backward to the tail of the helix and the lower antihelix. It is one of the intrinsic muscles of the auricle and has little functional significance in humans.
| Origin | Outer surface of the antitragus |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Tail of the helix (cauda helicis) and the adjacent antihelix |
| Nerve Supply | Posterior auricular nerve (facial nerve, CN VII) |
| Blood Supply | Posterior auricular artery |
| Actions |
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It is rudimentary, with at most a slight effect on the shape of the lower concha.
The antitragicus is supplied by the posterior auricular branch of the facial nerve rather than the temporal branch, which is a useful detail when describing the pattern of facial nerve branches to the ear. The antitragus region is a frequent site for cartilage piercings and keloid formation, and is involved in otoplasty for prominent ears. The muscle can be divided during these procedures without functional consequences.
Not separately palpable; it lies under the skin of the antitragus above the earlobe.
An overgrown, firm scar that develops after ear piercing or surgery, most often on the earlobe or cartilage, and frequently recurs after simple excision.
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