Method Of Exam
Author: A. Chandrasekhar, MD
Intrephalangeal joint exam is discussed under "joints".
Examine the contour of finger with hand firmly pressed on a flat surface.
Hold a finger separately and view it laterally to note the angle between skin and base of nail..
Elicit fluctuation and feel for sponginess of nail bed.
Observe the
periungual skin
.
Feel for the posterior edge of nail.
Inspect the finger tips.
Evaluate draping of skin to fingers
Normal:
Fingers are uniform in width its entire length, the angle between base of nail and skin is 160
o
, posterior edge of nail is not palpable and the nail bed is firm.
Creases in finger tips are evident.
Skin is loosely wrapped around fingers.