Schamroth window test: A simple finger trick to check if you’ve Lung Cancer

Last updated on February 29th, 2024 at 07:11 pm

Have you heard of the Schamroth Window Test? It’s a simple finger trick that you can easily perform at home to potentially indicate signs of lung cancer. Emma Norton, an oncology nurse advisor at Bupa UK, is urging people to learn this test, which can save precious time before it’s too late to consult a doctor. In this article, we’ll dive into what this test is all about, how to perform it, and the science behind it.

Schamroth window test or the diamond hole finger test

The Schamroth Window Test, also known as the diamond hole finger test, is a medical technique used by professionals as a partial method of confirming conditions. But you can also do the test yourself, and it only takes a few seconds.

Here’s how to perform the Schamroth Window Test step-by-step:

• Step 1: Use your index finger on both hands for more accuracy.
• Step 2: Put the nails of the index finger together and look for the hole between the cuticles.
• Step 3: In a normal person, there will be a hole in the shape of a diamond.
• Step 4: If no hole is formed between the cuticles, then it’s an early warning sign of lung cancer.

People who don’t have the diamond-shaped gap may have clubbed fingers, which can be an early sign of lung cancer. However, one should be aware that it is not the confirmatory diagnosis of lung cancer as it can also happen in various illnesses, including heart problems. Medically, it is termed as clubbing of the finger. In one of the cancer research, the scientists were surprised by the result of the study as cancer completely vanished in 12 cancer patients by drugs, without any chemoradiotherapy. This research gives hope to millions of cancer sufferers worldwide.

Also read: Exercise is medicine for cancer prevention & cure: Study

What is the clubbing of the finger?

Clubbing of the finger describes changes in the finger and nails. It is characterized by bulbous swelling of the distal fingers and toes, which develops slowly over a period of time, and loss of the normal angle between the nail bed and skin.

In severe cases, extra areas of bone may form on the fingers, wrists or ankles. Often mistaken for arthritis, this is known as hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy.

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How does lung cancer cause fingers to “club”?

The reason why finger clubbing occurs in lung cancer is still unclear. It is thought to be caused by fluid collecting in the soft tissues at the end of the finger, which may be due to greater blood flow to the area or the chemicals or hormones released by tumours. It’s important to note that early detection of lung cancer can save lives, so if you notice any unusual changes in your fingers or nails, consult your doctor right away. And remember, a simple test like the Schamroth Window Test can potentially help you catch signs of lung cancer early and initiate treatment in time.