Test: Dermatome Assessment - Cervical Spine

Video Link

Background/Purpose

C2 - At least one cm lateral to the occipital protuberance at the base of the skull. Alternately, a point at least 3 cm behind the ear.
C3 - In the supraclavicular fossa, at the midclavicular line.
C4 - Over the acromioclavicular joint.
C5 - On the lateral (radial) side of the antecubital fossa, just proximally to the elbow.
C6 - On the dorsal surface of the proximal phalanx of the thumb.
C7 - On the dorsal surface of the proximal phalanx of the middle finger.
C8 - On the dorsal surface of the proximal phalanx of the little finger.

Procedure

Using a pinprick or Semmes-Weinstein monofilament, poke the patient within the subjects dermatome area to be tested.
Instruct the patient to identify when they are contacted with the filament.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Use a monofilament to press the subjects skin and have them alert the clinician when they feel it.

Criteria

• Equal sensation throughout the dermatome
• Equal sensation with surrounding dermatomess

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail