Autonomic Fibers Entering the Thoracic Cavity Intersect at Which Plexus(es)

Question

Autonomic fibers entering the thoracic cavity intersect at which plexus(es)?
A) esophageal plexus
B) cardiac and pulmonary plexuses
C) celiac and pulmonary plexuses
D) hypogastric plexus
E) inferior mesenteric and hypogastric plexuses

Accepted Answer

Autonomic fibers entering the thoracic cavity intersect at both the cardiac and pulmonary plexuses, which provide innervation to the heart and lungs, respectively. Option A (esophageal plexus) is located in the abdomen and innervates the esophagus and surrounding structures. Option C (celiac and pulmonary plexuses) includes two separate plexuses located in the abdomen and thorax, respectively, that innervate abdominal organs and the lungs. Option D (hypogastric plexus) is located in the pelvis and innervates pelvic organs. Option E (inferior mesenteric and hypogastric plexuses) includes two separate plexuses located in the abdomen and pelvis, respectively, that innervate abdominal and pelvic organs.