**Question:** TRUE about deep palmar arch

A. The deep palmar arch is formed by the ulnar artery and its branches.
B. The deep palmar arch supplies blood to the fingers and thumb.
C. The deep palmar arch is always present in humans.
D. The deep palmar arch is formed by the radial artery and its branches.

**Correct Answer:** C. The deep palmar arch is always present in humans.

**Core Concept:** The deep palmar arch is a vascular structure found in the palm of the hand. It plays a crucial role in supplying blood to the fingers and thumb.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The deep palmar arch is indeed present in humans, and its primary function is to supply blood to the fingers and thumb. It is comprised of the ulnar artery and its branches.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. The deep palmar arch is incorrectly stated to be formed by the ulnar artery and its branches. In reality, it is formed by the ulnar artery and its branches (like the ulnar digital artery and ulnar branch of the median artery).

B. While the deep palmar arch does supply blood to the fingers and thumb, the statement about it supplying blood to the whole hand is incorrect. The superficial palmar arch also plays a role in hand circulation.

D. The deep palmar arch is not always present in humans. It can be absent in some individuals, particularly in those with anomalies or congenital defects, such as the presence of a single artery (e.g., a single radial artery) or absence of the ulnar artery.

**Clinical Pearl:** The understanding of the deep palmar arch and its variations is essential for medical professionals, as it can impact diagnosis, surgical planning, and management of various hand injuries and diseases.