Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Schamroth Sign

also known as Schamroth window test
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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

Ask the patient to place the dorsal (nail) surfaces of the two corresponding fingers together, nail to nail — typically the index or ring fingers — and hold them up to the light. Look at the space between the nail beds. Normally a small diamond-shaped window is visible between them; a positive sign is obliteration of this window (the gap disappears).

How to Interpret

Showing all 1 finding

Digital Clubbing

Schamroth sign positive
Rule in
Helpful
Rule out
Helpful
Evidence:Limited

References

  • Pallares-Sanmartin A, Leiro-Fernandez V, Cebreiro TL, Botana-Rial M, Fernandez-Villar A. Validity and reliability of the Schamroth sign for the diagnosis of clubbing. JAMA. 2010;304(2):159-161. doi:10.1001/jama.2010.935. PMID: 20628128.
  • Schamroth L. Personal experience. S Afr Med J. 1976;50(9):297-300.