Asterixis, also known as “flapping tremor,” is an involuntary movement characterized by brief, irregular tremors of the hands, wrists, or fingers. It can be a sign of liver disease, metabolic disorders, or certain medications. Checking for asterixis is a simple but important part of a physical examination.
To check for asterixis, the examiner will ask the patient to extend their arms out in front of them with their palms facing down. The examiner will then observe the patient’s hands for any tremors. If the patient has asterixis, their hands will tremble slightly and irregularly. The examiner may also ask the patient to perform other movements, such as tapping their fingers or touching their nose, to further assess the severity of the tremors.
