Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Which dermatome is associated with the nipple area?

1. T1

2. T4

3. T7

4. T10

The correct answer is: T4

The dermatome associated with the nipple area is T4. Dermatomes are specific areas of skin that are innervated by the sensory fibers of a single spinal nerve root. The T4 dermatome particularly corresponds to the area around the nipple, typically aligning horizontally at the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra. This mapping of dermatomes is essential for understanding the distribution of pain and sensory symptoms in clinical practice. Knowledge of which spinal nerve corresponds to which dermatome allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment plans. The T4 level is significant in the context of thoracic innervation as the mid-thoracic region provides sensory input from structures in the chest and upper abdomen. In contrast, the other options reflect different areas of innervation: T1 is primarily associated with the upper limb and axillary region, T7 correlates with the lower thorax and upper abdomen, and T10 relates to the umbilical area. Each of these dermatomes serves distinct anatomical regions, emphasizing how the body segments are organized neurologically.