Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Which finger is associated with Dermatome C6?

1. Thumb

2. Middle finger

3. Ring/little finger

4. Index finger

The correct answer is: Middle finger

The dermatome associated with C6 primarily covers the thumb and the lateral aspect of the forearm, extending down to the first two fingers, specifically the thumb and part of the index finger. In this case, the correct association with the C6 dermatome is the thumb, making it vital to recognize the primary areas innervated by nerves emerging from this spinal segment. The choice regarding the middle finger is incorrect because C6 does not primarily supply sensation to that area; rather, it is more closely related to the C7 dermatome. The index finger is indeed part of the C6 dermatome area, but it is not the finger that is most commonly identified with C6. In summary, a detailed understanding of dermatomes reveals that the finger most directly related to C6 is the thumb, highlighting the importance of accurate identification of dermatomes for clinical assessments regarding nerve injuries or conditions affecting specific regions of the hand.