DERMATOME Meaning and
Definition
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A dermatome refers to a specific area of the skin that is innervated by a single spinal nerve. It is essentially a term used in the field of anatomy and neurology to describe the distribution of sensory nerves on the skin surface. The skin is divided into multiple regions, each served by a particular nerve root. These regions are known as dermatomes.
Dermatomes are organized in a systematic pattern, corresponding to the spinal nerves emerging from the spinal cord. Each dermatome holds a unique sensory map that covers a specific part of the body. This arrangement allows healthcare professionals to diagnose and assess nerve-related conditions or injuries.
Furthermore, dermatomes hold great importance in the field of neuroscience. They serve as a guide to determine the exact location of nerve compression or damage, aiding clinicians in identifying the underlying cause of conditions such as radiculopathy or neuropathy.
Understanding dermatomes is crucial for medical professionals to accurately diagnose and treat various neurological and dermatological conditions. It helps them identify areas where patients may experience abnormal sensations, such as numbness, tingling, or pain, which can then be correlated with specific nerve roots and spinal cord segments.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DERMATOME
Etymology of DERMATOME
The word dermatome has its roots in Greek etymology. It is derived from two Greek words: derma which means skin and temnein which means to cut. Thus, the term dermatome literally translates to cutting of the skin.
Similar spelling words for DERMATOME
- dermatologic,
- dreamtime,
- dermatitis,
- Durematoma,
- dreamteam,
- termtime,
- dermatology,
- dermatosis,
- dermatoma,
- Dermotomy,
- dharmatma,
- dermatobia.
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