Posterior cutaneous nerve of arm

Posterior Cutaneous Nerve of Arm is a nerve in the human body that originates from the radial nerve. It is responsible for providing sensory innervation to the skin on the posterior aspect of the arm.

Etymology

The term "Posterior Cutaneous Nerve of Arm" is derived from the Latin words 'posterior' meaning 'behind', 'cutaneous' referring to 'skin', and 'nerve' which is derived from the Latin 'nervus'. The term 'arm' is derived from the Old English 'earm', related to the German 'arm', the Old Norse 'armr' and the Latin 'armus'.

Anatomy

The Posterior Cutaneous Nerve of Arm is a branch of the Radial Nerve. It originates in the axilla (armpit) and travels down the arm to innervate the skin on the posterior aspect of the arm. It is one of the few nerves that does not provide any motor innervation, meaning it does not control any muscles. Instead, its primary function is sensory, providing the sense of touch, temperature, and pain to the skin it innervates.

Function

The main function of the Posterior Cutaneous Nerve of Arm is to carry sensory information from the skin on the back of the arm to the brain. This includes sensations of touch, temperature, and pain.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Posterior Cutaneous Nerve of Arm can result in loss of sensation in the area of skin it innervates. This can occur due to trauma, surgery, or conditions that affect the nerves such as neuropathy.

Related Terms

• Radial Nerve
• Axilla
• Neuropathy

See Also

• Nervous System
• Peripheral Nervous System
• Sensory Nerves

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  Diagram showing the course of the posterior cutaneous nerve of the arm.
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  Anatomical illustration of the nerves of the upper limb, including the posterior cutaneous nerve of the arm.
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  Detailed view of the posterior cutaneous nerve of the arm and its branches.