2-5

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2-5. PHYSICAL FINDINGS OF PALPATION

Palpate (examine by touching or pressing) the skin and note the following:

a. Skin Texture. Feel the skin to determine whether it is rough and coarse, smooth and fine, or dry as in winter itch. Rough, coarse skin can be an indication of hypothyroidism while smooth, fine skin can be an indication of hyperthyroidism.

 

b. Skin Thickness. There may be increased thickness as in corns and calluses. Decreased skin thickness can be caused by poor blood supply to particular areas or excessive use of steroids.

 

c. Elasticity. This is the ability of the skin to return to its normal position when stretched or pulled. Loss of elasticity occurs most commonly in such areas as the back of the hand and face. An individual who has lost weight rapidly may have loose skin. Skin loses elasticity as part of the process of aging.

 

d. Hydration. If the skin is loose, wrinkled, and lax, it suggests dehydration of the entire body, a condition called turgor. The opposite condition is edema, excess body water stored in the skin. Firm pressure against these fluid-filled areas results in indentation in the skin.

 

e. Moisture. Sweating and oiliness can both cause moisture. Excessive moisture (especially on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet and under the armpits) may occur in normal people as well as in people who have a fever. A person with cold, clammy skin may have a serious medical condition. Abnormal dryness is noted in people with aged skin, especially during the winter months in temperate climates where the humidity may be low. Dryness may also be associated with large doses of atropine-like drugs.

 

f. Temperature. With the back of your fingers, feel the skin to assess skin temperature. Increased skin temperature can be caused by infection or heat stroke. Decreased skin temperature may occur when there is vascular obstruction, shock, or hypothermia.

 

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