Which area of the hand is most sensitive to temperature?

• A. Palmar surface and base of fingers.
• B. Fingertips.
• C. Dorsal surface.
• D. Fingers and thumb.

Answer: (C)

Temperature sensation depends on the distribution and density of thermoreceptors in the skin, along with how thick and protective the skin is. The back of the hand has thinner skin and less protective tissue than the palm and the fingertips, so it responds more readily to changes in temperature. The palm and the bases of the fingers have thicker skin and more calluses due to gripping, which dampen subtle temperature cues. The fingertips are superb for detecting fine touch and texture, not as optimized for sensing temperature differences. Because of these factors, the dorsal surface of the hand is the most sensitive area for perceiving temperature changes.