Nodose Ganglion

ganglion inferius nervi vagi

The nodose ganglion (inferior vagal ganglion) is the lower sensory ganglion of the vagus nerve, located in the jugular foramen just below the smaller superior jugular ganglion. It contains the cell bodies of visceral afferent neurons supplying the thoracic and abdominal viscera, including the esophagus, trachea, bronchi, heart, and upper gastrointestinal tract. Its chemoreceptors respond to mechanical and chemical stimuli from the viscera.

Region: Neck

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The nodose ganglion is increasingly recognised as a target in vagal nerve-based therapies. The cough reflex arc begins with sensory receptors in the larynx and trachea whose cell bodies lie in the nodose ganglion. Chronic refractory cough from nodose ganglion sensitisation (as occurs after viral infection) responds to treatments targeting this hypersensitisation. Vagal nerve stimulators implanted for epilepsy and depression activate fibres that pass through the nodose ganglion level. The ganglion is adjacent to the carotid sheath structures at the skull base.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Nodose Ganglion Sensitisation in Chronic Refractory Cough

Post-viral sensitisation of the nodose ganglion afferents supplying the laryngotracheal mucosa lowers the cough reflex threshold, producing chronic refractory cough triggered by cold air, talking, and minor stimuli; neuromodulating agents (gabapentin, pregabalin, amitriptyline) reduce nodose ganglion sensitisation and cough frequency.