TECHNIQUE |
FINDINGS |
|---|
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Pigmented nevi. Nonpigmented striae. Freckles. Birthmarks. |
UNEXPECTED:Dysplastic, precancerous, or cancerous nevi. Chloasma. Unpigmented skin. Generalized or localized color changes. Vascular skin lesions. Vascular changes. |
 Thickness |
EXPECTED:Thickness variations, with eyelids thinnest, areas of rubbing thickest. Calluses on hands and feet. |
UNEXPECTED:Atrophy. Hyperkeratosis. Corns. |
 Symmetry |
EXPECTED:Bilateral symmetry. |
 Hygiene |
EXPECTED:Clean. |
Palpate skin |
|
 Moisture |
EXPECTED:Minimal perspiration or oiliness. Increased perspiration (associated with activity, environment, obesity, anxiety, excitement) noticeable on palms, scalp, forehead, axillae. |
UNEXPECTED:Damp intertriginous areas. |
 Temperature
Palpate with dorsal surface of hand or fingers. |
EXPECTED:Cool to warm. Bilateral symmetry. |
 Texture |
EXPECTED:Smooth, soft, and even. Roughness resulting from heavy clothing, cold weather, or soap. |
UNEXPECTED:Extensive or widespread roughness. |
 Turgor and mobility |
EXPECTED:Resilience. |
Gently pinch skin on forearm or in sternal area, and release. |
UNEXPECTED:Failure of skin to return to place quickly. |
 |
|
Inspect and palpate lesions |
|
 Size
Measure all dimensions.
 Shape
 Color
Use Wood’s lamp to distinguish fluorescing lesions.
 Blanching
 Texture
Transilluminate to determine presence of fluid.
 Elevation/depression
 Pedunculation
 Exudate
Note color, odor, amount, and consistency of lesion.
 Configuration
Check lesion for annular, grouped, linear, arciform, or diffuse arrangement.
 Location/distribution
Check lesion for generalized/localized, body region, patterns, or discrete/confluent. |
UNEXPECTED:See table on pp. 36–39 |
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