Fühltest

Fühltest is a clinical procedure used to evaluate tactile sensation and somatosensory function, typically as part of a neurological examination. In German medical practice, the term refers to methods that assess the accuracy, threshold, and quality of touch perception to determine whether sensation is intact or impaired along peripheral nerves or central pathways. The test supports the diagnosis of neuropathies, spinal cord injuries, stroke, and other neurologic conditions.

Typical modalities include light touch, pinprick (pain), temperature discrimination, vibration sense, and proprioception. Common tools are a cotton swisp or brush for light touch; a sterile pin for pinprick; cold and warm objects for temperature; a tuning fork for vibration; and, in some cases, Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments to quantify cutaneous thresholds. Tests are usually performed with the patient’s eyes closed, stimuli applied to dermatome- or site-specific regions, and responses recorded for presence, intensity, and location. Documentation often notes symmetry and the smallest detectable stimulus.

Applications encompass initial neurological assessment, monitoring peripheral neuropathy in diabetes, evaluating recovery after injury, and guiding rehabilitation. Interpretation depends on the distribution of sensory loss: focal deficits suggest localized lesions, while diffuse or bilateral loss may indicate systemic neuropathies or higher-level dysfunction.

Limitations include subjectivity of responses, patient attention and cooperation, and environmental factors. Proper technique and, when available, standardized test batteries improve reliability.

See also: sensory examination, neurological examination, Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, two-point discrimination test, vibration testing.