What are the sensory functions of the musculocutaneous nerve?

The musculocutaneous nerve is primarily responsible for innervating the muscles in the anterior compartment of the arm, including the biceps brachii, brachialis, and coracobrachialis. However, it also plays a sensory role, specifically providing sensation to the skin of the lateral aspect of the forearm. This area is where the sensory fibers of the musculocutaneous nerve terminate, allowing it to convey sensory information from this region.

Understanding this sensory distribution is critical for recognizing the nerve's function and the areas of the arm and forearm it affects. In clinical contexts, it can also assist in diagnosing potential nerve injuries or conditions associated with sensory loss or pain in the lateral forearm.