The word dermatome refers to a correspondence between the skin and the nervous system. Sensory dermatome maps used to help localize the level of neurologic deficit.
Levels of principal dermatomes
| C5 | Clavicles |
| C5, 6, 7 | Lateral parts of upper limbs |
| C8, Th1 | Medial sides of upper limbs |
| C6 | Thumb |
| C6, 7, 8 | Hand |
| C8 | Ring and little fingers |
| Th4 | Level of nipples |
| Th10 | Level of umbilicus |
| Th12 | Inguinal or groin regions |
| L1, 2, 3, 4 | Anterior and inner surfaces of lower limbs |
| L4, 5, S1 | Foot |
| L4 | Medial side of great toe |
| S1, 2, L5 | Posterior and outer surfaces of lower limbs |
| S1 | Lateral margin of foot and little toe |
| S2, 3, 4 | Perineum |
References:
- Greenberg SA. The history of dermatome mapping. Arch Neurol. 2003 Jan;60(1):126-31. [Medline]
- Lee MW, McPhee RW, Stringer MD. An evidence-based approach to human dermatomes. Clin Anat. 2008 Jul;21(5):363-73. [Medline]
Created: Dec 31, 2008
