Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Necrotizing fasciitis other diagnostic studies
Introduction
Other Diagnostic Studies
Other Diagnostic Studies
Finger Probe Test
- Finger probe test is useful in the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis.[1]
Procedure
- This test is carried out in the ward, emergency room and in the theatre under local or general anesthesia.
- After infiltrating the area, a 2cm incision is made down to the deep fascia.
- Fascia will be swollen and grey on gross inspection.
- Gentle probing with index finger is performed at the level of deep fascia and if the tissue dissects with the minimal resistance, then finger probe test is considered positive.
- Signs suggesting necrotizing fasciitis include:
- Lack of bleeding
- Lack of normal tissue resistance on finger probe
- Oozing of malodorous “dish water fluid”
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yamuna Kondapally, M.B.B.S[2]