To perform stereognosis testing, what should you do?

• A. Place a familiar object in the patient's hand and ask them to identify it
• B. Draw a large number on the patient's palm
• C. Ask the patient to localize a touch
• D. Test vibration with a tuning fork

Answer: (A)

Stereognosis testing measures the ability to recognize objects by touch alone, which requires intact peripheral sensation plus higher-level cortical processing to interpret shape, texture, and weight without visual input. To perform it, place a familiar object in the patient’s hand and ask them to identify it by touch. This approach directly engages the sensory modalities and cortical integration needed for object recognition.

Other demonstrations tap different senses: drawing a large number on the palm tests graphesthesia (identifying writing on the skin), asking the patient to localize a touch assesses tactile localization, and using a tuning fork evaluates vibratory sensation. If stereognosis is impaired while basic touch is intact, it suggests cortical sensory dysfunction, often from a parietal lobe or thalamic issue.