Medial brachial cutaneous nerve

Medial Brachial Cutaneous Nerve

The Medial Brachial Cutaneous Nerve (MBCN), also known as the medial cutaneous nerve of the arm, is a nerve in the human body that plays a crucial role in the sensory innervation of the skin on the medial aspect of the arm. It is one of the smaller peripheral nerves but is significant for its sensory contributions.

Anatomy

The Medial Brachial Cutaneous Nerve originates from the brachial plexus, specifically from the medial cord. Its roots are primarily derived from the eighth cervical (C8) and first thoracic (T1) nerve fibers. After branching from the medial cord, the MBCN descends along the arm, running parallel and medial to the brachial artery. It then divides into anterior and posterior branches to supply sensation to the skin of the medial side of the arm, extending down to the elbow.

Function

The primary function of the Medial Brachial Cutaneous Nerve is sensory. It provides the sense of touch, pain, and temperature to a specific area of the arm's skin. Unlike its counterpart, the Medial Antebrachial Cutaneous Nerve, which innervates the forearm, the MBCN is solely responsible for the sensory innervation of the arm's medial aspect.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the Medial Brachial Cutaneous Nerve can result in sensory deficits or neuropathic pain in its distribution area. Such injuries may occur due to trauma, surgical procedures near the brachial plexus, or compression. Diagnosis of MBCN injury involves clinical examination and may require nerve conduction studies for confirmation.

See Also

• Brachial Plexus
• Peripheral Nerve Injury
• Sensory Nerves of the Upper Limb