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For most purposes it is sufficient to test sensation to pinprick, touch, position, and vibration in each of the four extremities (Figs. 180-1 and 180-2). The Romberg maneuver, primarily a test of proprioception, is tested as follows: pt is asked to stand with feet together while eyes are open, and eyes are then closed; loss of balance with the eyes closed is an abnormal response. Specific problems often require more thorough evaluation. Pts with cerebral lesions may have abnormalities in “discriminative sensation” such as the ability to perceive double simultaneous stimuli, to localize stimuli accurately, to identify closely approximated stimuli as separate (two-point discrimination), to identify objects by touch alone (stereognosis), or to judge weights, evaluate texture, or identify letters or numbers written on the skin surface (graphesthesia).

Outline

Section 14. Neurology