Method Of Exam

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.