The finger-to-nose test (FNT) is a simple neurological exam used to assess cerebellar function. It evaluates the coordination and smoothness of upper limb movements.
How the Test is Performed
The patient is typically asked to perform one of the following:
- Touch their nose with their index finger, then extend their arm to touch the examiner's finger, repeatedly alternating.
- Touch the examiner's stationary or moving finger with their index finger, then touch their nose.
The examiner observes the movement for smoothness, accuracy, and any signs of tremor, dysmetria (inaccuracy of movement), or ataxia (lack of coordination). The test can be performed with the patient lying down, sitting, or standing, increasing the difficulty depending on the position.
What the Finger Nose Test Evaluates
The FNT primarily assesses the cerebellum's role in coordinating movement. Specifically, it helps detect:
- Dysmetria: Difficulty judging the distance or range of movement needed to accurately touch the nose or examiner's finger.
- Ataxia: Lack of coordination in voluntary movements.
- Tremor: Involuntary shaking or trembling during the movement.
The test's results, along with other clinical findings, can aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions affecting the cerebellum, such as:
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cerebellar tumors
- Intoxication (alcohol or drugs)
Numerous studies highlight the FNT's use in diagnosing cerebrovascular events, particularly in conjunction with other prehospital stroke screening tools to improve diagnosis. For example, studies show that adding the FNT to existing scales improves the identification of posterior strokes. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11] The test's simplicity and ease of administration make it a valuable tool for initial neurological assessments in various clinical settings.
1. Stanford Medicine 25
2. The finger-to-nose test improved diagnosis of cerebrovascular ...
3. Cerebellar Neurological Signs - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
4. Educating Paramedics on the Finger-to-Nose Test Improves ...
5. Finger to Nose Test | SpringerLink
6. Dysmetria: What It Is, Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
7. Educating Paramedics on the Finger-to-Nose Test Improves ...
8. Does the Finger-to-Nose Test measure upper limb coordination in ...
9. What Is Dysmetria?
10. Finger-nose test – GPnotebook
11. The finger-to-nose test (FNT) is a basic and simple physical examination that has been conventionally used to examine cerebellar function.
