Lateral cutaneous nerve

Lateral Cutaneous Nerve

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Lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm and hand.

The Lateral Cutaneous Nerve is a nerve in the human body that provides sensory innervation to the skin of the lateral aspect of the forearm. It is a branch of the Musculocutaneous Nerve, which is itself a branch of the Brachial Plexus.

Anatomy

The Lateral Cutaneous Nerve arises from the Musculocutaneous Nerve in the upper arm. It then travels down the arm, passing through the Biceps Brachii and the Brachialis muscles before emerging on the lateral side of the forearm.

Function

The Lateral Cutaneous Nerve is a sensory nerve. Its primary function is to provide sensation to the skin on the lateral side of the forearm. This includes both touch and temperature sensation.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Lateral Cutaneous Nerve can result in a loss of sensation on the lateral side of the forearm. This can occur as a result of trauma, surgery, or conditions such as Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.

See Also

• Musculocutaneous Nerve
• Brachial Plexus
• Cubital Tunnel Syndrome