Graphesthesia

Brain & Nerve

Office-Based Procedures

Contributed byKasturi Sarkar+1 moreMay 08, 2022

What is Graphesthesia?

Graphesthesia is a tool used to test sensory input and sensitivity in individuals.

During this procedure, a blunt object or one’s fingertip is used on the palm of the patient’s hand. The patient is asked to close his/her eyes and try to identify the image or word the practitioner draws on the palm
Individuals who are able to identify the images drawn on their hands are said to have normal cortical function. While those who struggle to identify the drawing may have delays in their cortical sensory function
The primary somatosensory cortex is the part of the brain that makes an individual aware of various sensations including touch, pressure, temperature, and pain
Individuals who are unable to identify the character(s) drawn on their palms may have agraphesthesia (the inability to recognize traced symbols)

Graphesthesia is most commonly used in cases of corticobasal ganglionic degeneration, a rare neurological disorder. However, it may be also used to test one’s general coordination.

On the Article

Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

Author

Kasturi Sarkar

Senior Editorial Staff

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