**Core Concept**
The dermatomes are the areas of skin supplied by nerves that arise from specific spinal nerve roots. Dermatomes are crucial for understanding the clinical manifestations of nerve damage or spinal cord lesions. In this question, we are asked to identify the dermatome corresponding to the little finger of the hand.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The little finger of the hand is innervated by the cutaneous branches of the ulnar nerve, which arises from the C8 spinal nerve root. The C8 nerve root is responsible for the sensory innervation of the medial one and a half fingers (the little finger and the medial half of the ring finger). The ulnar nerve also provides motor innervation to the intrinsic muscles of the hand, including those responsible for finger movement. Therefore, the dermatome corresponding to the little finger of the hand is C8.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** C6 is the dermatome corresponding to the lateral forearm and the thumb side of the hand, not the little finger.
**Option B:** C7 is the dermatome corresponding to the middle finger, not the little finger.
**Option D:** T1 is the dermatome corresponding to the medial side of the arm and the medial side of the hand, not the little finger.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that dermatomes can be used to diagnose nerve damage or spinal cord lesions by identifying the area of sensory loss or altered sensation. A thorough knowledge of dermatomes is crucial for a neurological examination.
**β Correct Answer: C. C8**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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