Circumvallate papillae are the 8-12 large, flat-topped papillae arranged in a V-shaped row just in front of the sulcus terminalis. Each is sunk into the tongue and surrounded by a deep trench. Hundreds of taste buds line the walls of each papilla, and serous von Ebner glands empty into the base of the trench.
| Location | In a V-shaped row just anterior to the sulcus terminalis of the tongue |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX, taste and general sensation) |
| Blood Supply | Dorsal lingual arteries |
Carry a large share of the tongue's taste buds, especially sensitive to bitter tastes.
Although at the back of the oral tongue, the circumvallate papillae are supplied by the glossopharyngeal nerve. People sometimes notice them for the first time and worry about a growth, but they are normal. Von Ebner glands flush the trench so new tastes can be detected.
Enlarged or inflamed circumvallate papillae from irritation or infection, often noticed by patients as lumps at the back of the tongue but usually benign.
Damage to CN IX, for example during tonsillectomy, can reduce taste and sensation over the posterior tongue including the circumvallate papillae.
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