Following anterior dislocation of the shoulder, an axillary nerve injury occurs. The area of sensory loss that is most specific for axillary nerve injury is:
- A Lateral aspect of the upper arm (regimental badge area) over the deltoid tuberosity ✓
- B Medial aspect of the upper arm
- C Antecubital fossa
- D First web space of the hand
Correct answer: A. Lateral aspect of the upper arm (regimental badge area) over the deltoid tuberosity
Explanation
The axillary nerve (C5, C6) supplies the deltoid and teres minor muscles, and its sensory branch (upper lateral brachial cutaneous nerve) supplies the skin over the lateral aspect of the upper arm in the 'regimental badge' area over the deltoid tuberosity. Loss of sensation in this area with weakness of shoulder abduction (deltoid) following anterior shoulder dislocation confirms axillary nerve injury. The antecubital fossa is supplied by the musculocutaneous nerve; first web space by the radial nerve; medial arm by the medial cutaneous nerve.
Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.