Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test

Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test is a neurological test that is used in sensory loss of the skin.

In Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test, the palm of the hand is divided into several areas, and only one point (usually in the center) is tested in each area:

1. Between the fingertip and DIP joint.
2. Between the DIP joint and PIP joint.
3. Between the PIP joint and finger web.
4. Between the finger web and the distal anterior (palmar) crease.
5. Between the distal anterior (palmar) crease and the central palm.
6. Base of palm and wrist.
7. Superficial radial nerve distribution.

The clinician applies a monofilament perpendicular to the surface, and the pressure is increased until the monofilament begins to bend. Filament 2.83 MN is considered the “Normal” filament and indicates normal light touch perception. A positive test for CTS is when the patient with eyes closed cannot report which digit is receiving pressure at 2.83 mg.

See Also: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Download Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test PDF File

Light Touch Testing Scale and Filament Forces Using Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test

Diagnostic Usefulness of the Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test in one study by Koris et al found that this test has a Sensitivity of 82% and a Specificity of 86%.

Another study by Pagel et al. found the Sensitivity of 98% and a Specificity of 15% for the Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test.

In a study on 36 hands with carpal tunnel syndrome, the Interexaminer Reliability was κ = .22 (.26, .42).

See Also: Weber Two Point Discrimination Test

The grades of Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament Test

References

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