A cord lesion at T8 interrupts the dorsal columns on the left. Which modality is lost below the level on the left side?
- A Pain and temperature only
- B Conscious proprioception and discriminative touch ✓
- C Crude touch and pressure
- D Unconscious proprioception from the lower limb
Correct answer: B. Conscious proprioception and discriminative touch
Explanation
The dorsal column medial lemniscal system carries ipsilateral fine touch, vibration, two-point discrimination, and conscious proprioception, decussating in the medulla, so a T8 hemilesion causes ipsilateral loss below the lesion. Pain and temperature travel in the contralateral spinothalamic tract. Unconscious proprioception travels in the spinocerebellar tracts, which are separate from the dorsal columns and unaffected here.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
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