Wredens sign, also known as Hoffman’s sign, is a reflex test used to assess the presence of neurological disorders. The spelling of Wredens sign is shown in IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈvrɛdənz saɪn/, with the ‘w’ being dropped for pronunciation. The first syllable ‘vre’ is pronounced with a soft ‘v’ sound followed by a short ‘e’ sound. The second syllable ‘denz’ is pronounced with a soft ‘d’ sound followed by a short ‘e’ sound and a ‘z’ sound. The final syllable ‘sain’ refers to the word ‘sign’.
Wredens sign refers to a medical term that characterizes the appearance of wrinkling or folding of the skin on the palms of the hands upon making a fist. This phenomenon is often associated with certain medical conditions, particularly those affecting the connective tissues, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome. The term is derived from the German dermatologist Philipp Wreden, who first described and studied this sign in the early 20th century.
The manifestation of Wredens sign occurs due to the excess elasticity or laxity of the skin, which allows it to stretch and fold more easily. This is typically observed when an individual clenches their hand into a fist, causing the skin to bunch up or gather into distinct folds. The prominence and extent of the wrinkling can vary from person to person, depending on the severity of their underlying condition.
Clinicians recognize Wredens sign as a clinical marker for certain connective tissue disorders. Its presence may prompt medical professionals to consider a possible diagnosis of a connective tissue disorder and initiate further investigation or refer the patient to a specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. However, it is important to note that the manifestation of Wredens sign alone is not definitive proof of any specific medical condition but serves as an indicator and can contribute to the diagnostic process when combined with other clinical features and diagnostic tests.