finger agnosia
Specific inability to identify, name, or point to individual fingers on command.
Full Definition
Finger agnosia is a focal cognitive deficit characterized by the inability to identify, name, or distinguish individual fingers, either on one's own hands or those of others. This condition is one component of Gerstmann's syndrome, along with acalculia, agraphia, and left-right confusion. Finger agnosia typically results from lesions in the dominant parietal lobe, specifically the angular gyrus. The assessment involves asking patients to point to named fingers, name pointed-to fingers, or indicate which finger was touched while vision is occluded. This deficit can significantly impact mathematical abilities and fine motor planning, making it an important consideration in educational and occupational rehabilitation.
Usage
Usage note: Often tested as part of Gerstmann's syndrome evaluation; distinguish from motor apraxia.
In Context
- "The patient's finger agnosia was evident when she could not identify her ring finger despite intact motor function." — Gerstmann syndrome assessment
- "Finger agnosia contributed to the child's difficulties with counting and basic arithmetic operations." — Pediatric neuropsychological report