What function does stereognosis test evaluate?

• A. Ability to identify objects by touch
• B. Ability to localize a touch
• C. Ability to sense temperature
• D. Ability to discriminate vibration

Answer: (A)

Stereognosis is a higher somatosensory function that lets you recognize objects by touch alone, using integrated tactile and proprioceptive information processed in the cortex, especially the parietal region. When the eyes are closed, you can manipulate an object and identify what it is based on shape, size, texture, and weight. That’s exactly what stereognosis tests.

The other options describe separate senses: localizing a touch is about precisely sensing where a touch occurred on the skin; sensing temperature assesses thermal sensation; discriminating vibration tests the ability to perceive vibratory input. These are distinct modalities and do not require object identification by touch, which is why the correct choice is identifying objects by touch.