Skin Turgor
Alternate Names : Decreased Skin Turgor, Doughy Skin, Good Skin Turgor, Poor Skin Turgor
DefinitionSkin turgor is an abnormality in the skin's ability to change shape and return to normal (elasticity). Skin turgor is the skin's degree of resistance to deformation and is determined by various factors, such as the amount of fluids in the body (hydration) and age.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview & Considerations
Skin turgor is one way to estimate the state of hydration (fluids) and, to a lesser extent, nutrition.
Skin turgor is a sign commonly used by health care workers to assess the degree of fluid loss or dehydration. Fluid loss can occur from common conditions, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Infants and young children with vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased or no fluid intake can rapidly lose a significant amount of fluid. Fever accelerates this process.
The skin on the back of the hand, lower arm, or abdomen is grasped between two fingers so that it is tented up. The skin is held for a few seconds then released. Skin with normal turgor snaps rapidly back to its normal position. Skin with decreased turgor remains elevated and returns slowly to its normal position.
Decreased skin turgor is a late sign in dehydration. It is associated with moderate to severe dehydration. Fluid loss of 5% of the body weight is considered mild dehydration, 10% is moderate and 15% or more is severe dehydration.
Note: Edema (accumulation of fluid in the tissues that causes swelling) causes the skin to be extremely difficult to pinch up.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
