Esthesiometer

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Esthesiometer is a medical instrument used to measure the sensitivity of the skin to touch. It is often used in neurological examinations to assess the sensory function of a patient's peripheral nerves.

History[edit | edit source]

The esthesiometer was first described by the French physician Paul Broca in the 19th century. It was initially used to measure the sensitivity of the skin to pressure and temperature, but its use has since expanded to include the measurement of other sensory modalities.

Design and Function[edit | edit source]

An esthesiometer typically consists of a series of calibrated monofilaments or rods that are applied to the skin with a specific amount of force. The patient's ability to perceive the touch of the monofilament or rod is then recorded. This allows the clinician to quantify the patient's sensory function and identify any areas of sensory loss or impairment.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Esthesiometers are commonly used in the assessment of patients with conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. They can also be used to monitor the progress of treatment in patients with these and other conditions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Esthesiometer Resources

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