Extension of normal values on sensory function for facial areas using clinical tests on touch and two-point discrimination.
The threshold value of a sensory test provides a numerical measure of the sensory function. In order to decide whether a threshold value from an affected site indicates 'abnormal' sensory function, it can be compared with normal values from a healthy control population. The aim of this study was to extend current information on normal values for static light touch and static two-point discrimination for facial sites. Using simple hand-held devices, 95% upper limits of confidence intervals of threshold values were determined for facial sites other than those studied previously and for a large sample of 100 healthy subjects. The MacKinnon-Dellon Disk-Criminator and the Aesthesiometer were used to measure novel normal values of two-point discrimination. As threshold values for two-point discrimination from the Aesthesiometer were similar to those obtained using the Disk-Criminator, the use of the Aesthesiometer might not be indicated. Apart from the Pressure Specified Sensory Device (a device with pressure control), Semmes-Weinstein nylon monofilaments and the Disk-Criminator are useful devices for studying sensory function, in particular under clinical test conditions in which easy and fast application are advantageous.
Vriens
J P M
JP
Department of Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery, Prosthodontics and Special Dental Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
van der Glas
H W
HW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002610:Cheek / Q000294:innervation; D002680:Chin / Q000294:innervation; D004192:Discrimination, Psychological; D005145:Face / Q000294:innervation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008046:Lip / Q000294:innervation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009460:Neurologic Examination / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012016:Reference Values; D012684:Sensory Thresholds; D014110:Touch / Q000502:physiology*; D014276:Trigeminal Nerve / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult