Which cervical dermatome provides sensory innervation to the forehead and temple region?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
- The cervical dermatomes refer to areas of skin innervated by sensory fibers from the respective cervical spinal nerves.
- Among these, the C2 dermatome is primarily responsible for providing sensory innervation to the posterior scalp, the forehead, and the temple region.
- The C1 spinal nerve is unique because it typically does not have a significant sensory component, mainly serving motor functions.
- The C3 dermatome covers the anterior neck region.
- The C4 dermatome supplies the lower neck and clavicular regions.
Therefore, when considering sensory innervation to the forehead and temple region, the C2 dermatome is the key contributor, providing sensation via nerves such as the greater occipital nerve, which arises from the dorsal ramus of C2.
Key points:
- C2 dermatome covers the forehead and temple area.
- C1 mainly has motor function with little to no sensory territory.
- C3 and C4 innervate more inferior neck and shoulder regions.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Volume 2, Chapter 13/ p. 589-590