Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

At which vertebral level is the genitals located?

1. T12

2. T10-L1

3. L1-L2

4. T8-T10

The correct answer is: T10-L1

The correct answer highlights that the development and innervation of the genitals are associated with the embryological origins of the gonads and their subsequent anatomical positioning in relation to the vertebral levels. The genitals, specifically the external genitalia, emerge from the tissues supplied by the lumbar and sacral spine, primarily within the range of L1 to L2. This area corresponds to the nerve supply originating from the lumbosacral plexus, which directly influences the genital region. Furthermore, the development of the genitals is also closely tied to hormonal influences from the gonads, which solidify their anatomical position as individuals develop. The vertebral levels of T10-L1 reflect the sympathetic innervation, while L1-L2 encompasses the parasympathetic innervation via the pelvic splanchnic nerves, which is crucial for functions related to the reproductive system. Other ranges mentioned do not accurately align with the central innervation and hormonal development interfacing with the genital area. T12 may correspond to some abdominal structures, but does not significantly relate to the genitals. Similarly, while T8-T10 relates to the upper abdominal organs’ innervation, it is too high to correspond to the genital level. Thus, the choice that includes