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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Re: Please explain reflex pathology
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Re: Please explain reflex pathology
by Raina__0, Jan 01, 1995 12:00AM
Posted By Raina on August 03, 1999 at 09:20:58
Hi there-
I have a couple of questions regarding pathological reflexes. I have a basic understanding that an abnormal babinski reflex is when the big toe dorsiflexes and the smaller toes fan out. A normal one is when the toes bend down and not up. My question is: What pathological significance is it when both toes don't do anything (they don't dorsiflex or bend down).
Also what significance do symmetrical brisk reflexes have when there is an abnormal babinski sign present? Please advise and thanks in advance- Raina
Hi there-
I have a couple of questions regarding pathological reflexes. I have a basic understanding that an abnormal babinski reflex is when the big toe dorsiflexes and the smaller toes fan out. A normal one is when the toes bend down and not up. My question is: What pathological significance is it when both toes don't do anything (they don't dorsiflex or bend down).
Also what significance do symmetrical brisk reflexes have when there is an abnormal babinski sign present? Please advise and thanks in advance- Raina
Dear Raina:
The Babinski sign as you well described examines the integrity of the pyrimidal tract from the motor cortex through the motor tracts (lateral) in the spinal cord to the peripheral nerves at the anterior horn. If there is a break in this tract, the large toe goes cephalad or toword the head. When one can not elicit a upward going toe, this may be poor technique or just a suboptimal response. The lack of a babinski sign just means that the tract is intact. When there are brisk reflexes and no babinski sign, this is usual an anxious patient or normal person. When both are present, this is an indication of an upper motor neuron problem. Examples are stoke, MS, etc.
I hope this helps you.
Sincerely,
CCF Neuro MD
Follow Ups:
Please explain reflex pathology Raina 8/03/1999
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Re: Please explain reflex pathology CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS 8/04/1999
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