The area of the cortex that receives input from the face is adjacent to the area of the cortex that receives input from the foot. After amputation of the foot, it is possible that a phantom limb sensation will be felt whenever the:
A) other foot is touched.
B) face is touched.
C) face is anesthetized.
D) axons from the foot regrow.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the area of the cortex that receives input from the face is adjacent to the area of the cortex that receives input from the foot suggests that there may be cross-talk between these adjacent areas. This means that after amputation of the foot, the brain may still be receiving signals from the face area, which could potentially result in phantom limb sensations whenever the face is touched. Therefore, choice B is the best answer. Choice A, other foot is touched, is less likely because the areas of the cortex that receive input from each foot are likely to be distinct, rather than adjacent. Choice C, face is anesthetized, would likely prevent any sensation from being felt in the face area, and thus would not trigger a phantom limb sensation. Choice D, axons from the foot regrow, is also unlikely to result in phantom limb sensations, as the foot itself is not present to receive signals from the regenerating axons.

The Area of the Cortex That Receives Input from the Face