Sympathetic T1-L2 Thoracolumbar — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPhysiology - NeurophysiologySympathetic T1-L2 ThoracolumbarFRCA Primary

From which spinal segments do sympathetic preganglionic neurones arise?

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Correct answer: C — T1 to L2 within the thoracolumbar intermediolateral cell column

The best answer is “T1 to L2 within the thoracolumbar intermediolateral cell column”. Sympathetic preganglionic neurones arise from the thoracolumbar outflow, conventionally T1–L2, in the intermediolateral cell column. They synapse in paravertebral or prevertebral ganglia before postganglionic fibres reach target organs. S2–S4 is the craniosacral parasympathetic outflow, not the sympathetic origin.

Reference: Royal College of Anaesthetists, Primary FRCA Syllabus 2021: https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/2026-01/Primary-FRCA-Syllabus.pdf