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In a viral TikTok video, Emergency Medicine physician Dr. Joe Whittington claimed that a simple thumb-to-palm test could indicate the likelihood of developing a dangerous aortic aneurysm. However, experts have since cast doubt on the validity of this test and its accuracy.

The thumb-to-palm test, also known as the "thumb-to-palm test" by Yale cardiologists, involves placing your hand flat on a table or holding it out in front of you and reaching your thumb across your palm. If the thumb protrudes off the opposite side of the hand, Dr. Whittington asserted that there is a 98 percent chance of having an aortic aneurysm. He attributed this to a potential collagen deficiency, which could lead to arterial swelling.

However, shortly after the video gained popularity, Dr. Whittington deleted it, raising questions about the validity of the test. Dr. Muhammad Siyad Panhwar, an interventional cardiologist, explained on TikTok that while the test may suggest a collagen deficiency, it does not confirm the presence of an aneurysm. Collagen is a crucial fiber that provides support and elasticity to blood vessels. A deficiency in collagen could weaken blood vessels, making them more prone to ballooning out and causing an aneurysm.

The link between collagen disorders and blood vessel dysfunction is a crucial aspect of the thumb-to-palm test. Those with collagen disorders often exhibit hypermobile joints and are at higher risk of developing aneurysms. However, Dr. Panhwar emphasized that the test alone is not enough to diagnose an aneurysm and urged individuals to consult their doctors for proper screening using ultrasound or echocardiogram.

According to a study carried out by cardiologists at Yale, 98 percent of the patients with an ascending aortic aneurysm had a positive thumb-to-palm test. However, this does not necessarily apply to the general population, and the results may vary. Dr. John Elefteriades, emeritus director of the Aortic Institute at Yale New Haven Hospital, clarified that not all aneurysm patients manifest a positive test. Therefore, the thumb-to-palm test only indicates a potential risk and should not be a cause for panic.

Every year, approximately 9,904 deaths are attributed to aortic aneurysm ruptures, according to the CDC. Aortic aneurysms can be life-threatening if left untreated, but they often grow slowly, allowing for regular monitoring through ultrasounds or CAT scans. If necessary, treatment options include surgical mesh implants or a five-hour surgery to reinforce the affected blood vessel.

The key takeaway from the controversy surrounding the thumb-to-palm test is the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. While the test may raise awareness about potential risks, it is not a definitive indicator of an aneurysm. Individuals with a positive test result and a family history of collagen disorders should consult their doctors to evaluate their specific risk factors.

In conclusion, the thumb-to-palm test for aneurysms has garnered attention on social media, but its validity and accuracy remain contested among medical experts. It is crucial for individuals concerned about their cardiovascular health to seek professional medical advice and undergo proper screenings for an accurate diagnosis.