Lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve

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Lateral Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve

The cutaneous nerves of the right lower extremity. Front and posterior views. (Lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve labeled at center right.)

The Lateral Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve (LDCN) is a branch of the sural nerve that provides sensory innervation to the skin on the lateral side of the foot and lower leg. It is a peripheral nerve of the lower limb, originating from the tibial nerve, a branch of the sciatic nerve.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The LDCN arises from the sural nerve in the lower third of the leg. It pierces the deep fascia to become cutaneous near the upper end of the short saphenous vein. The nerve then descends, supplying the skin over the lateral and posterior surfaces of the lower part of the leg and the lateral side of the foot, as far as the base of the little toe.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the LDCN can result in sensory loss or paresthesia (abnormal sensation) in its distribution area. This can occur due to trauma, compression, or diseases affecting peripheral nerves such as diabetes mellitus.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



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