Inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of arm

Inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of arm

Diagram of segmental distribution of the cutaneous nerves of the right upper extremity. (Inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of arm labeled in upper right.)
Latin	nervus cutaneus brachii lateralis inferior

The inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm is a sensory nerve that provides innervation to the skin of the lower lateral aspect of the arm. It is a branch of the radial nerve, which is one of the major nerves of the upper limb.

Anatomy

The inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm arises from the radial nerve, typically in the region of the axilla. It travels distally along the arm, emerging from the deep fascia to become superficial. It then continues to supply the skin over the lower lateral portion of the arm.

Function

The primary function of the inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm is to provide sensory innervation to the skin. It is responsible for transmitting sensory information such as touch, pain, and temperature from the skin of the lower lateral arm to the central nervous system.

Clinical significance

Injury to the inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm can result in sensory deficits in its area of distribution. Such injuries may occur due to trauma, surgical procedures, or compression. Symptoms of nerve injury may include numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the affected area.

Also see

• Radial nerve
• Cutaneous innervation of the upper limb
• Posterior cutaneous nerve of arm
• Lateral cutaneous nerve of forearm