Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Skin Turgor

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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

Gently pinch and lift a fold of skin between the thumb and forefinger — commonly over the forearm or sternum — hold it briefly, then release and watch how quickly it returns to its resting position. Reduced turgor is present when the fold returns slowly (tenting).

How to Interpret

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This test’s findings are all below your current evidence filter.

References

  • McGee S, Abernethy WB 3rd, Simel DL. The rational clinical examination. Is this patient hypovolemic? JAMA. 1999;281(11):1022-1029. doi:10.1001/jama.281.11.1022. PMID: 10086438. Free DARE summary at NCBI Bookshelf NBK67823. Systematic review of MEDLINE 1966-November 1997 plus textbook/bibliography searches evaluating physical signs of adult hypovolemia. 10 phlebotomy/postural studies and 4 ED vomiting/diarrhea/decreased intake studies included.
  • Fortes MB, Owen JA, Raymond-Barker P, Bishop C, Elghenzai S, Oliver SJ, Walsh NP. Is this elderly patient dehydrated? Diagnostic accuracy of hydration assessment using physical signs, urine, and saliva markers. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2015 Mar;16(3):221-228. doi:10.1016/j.jamda.2014.09.012. PMID: 25444573.
  • McGee S. Evidence-Based Physical Diagnosis. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025.

Related Diagnoses

DehydrationHypovolemia

Related Systems / Regions

Integumentary

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