Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Which structure is associated with Chapman’s reflex for sinusitis?

1. Lateral humerus

2. Medial malleolus

3. Base of the skull

4. Ethmoid bone

The correct answer is: Lateral humerus

Chapman’s points are small, palpable areas of tissue that reflect visceral organ dysfunction and can be used in osteopathic diagnoses and treatment. Chapman’s reflex points for sinusitis are specifically located on the anterior aspect of the body. The lateral humerus corresponds to the sinus region, reflecting its association with sinusitis. This location indicates that disturbances in the sinuses may lead to tenderness or altered function in this area, demonstrating the concept of somatovisceral reflexes, where hypofunction or hyperfunction in an organ can manifest as musculoskeletal tenderness. In contrast, structures such as the medial malleolus, base of the skull, and ethmoid bone do not correlate with Chapman’s points for sinusitis. The medial malleolus is associated with the bladder, while the base of the skull relates more to cranial issues or neck musculoskeletal problems. The ethmoid bone, being part of the cranial structure near the sinuses, is anatomically relevant but does not pertain specifically to the Chapman’s points for sinus function, which emphasizes the significance of the lateral humerus in the context of this reflex.