Babinskis reflex Babinskis reflex occurs when the big toe moves toward the top of the foot and the other toes fan out after the sole of the foot has been firmly stroked. This reflex, or sign, is normal in younger children, but abnormal after the age of 2. Considerations Reflexes are specific, predictable, involuntary responses to a particular type of stimulation. Babinskis reflex is one of the infantile reflexes. It is normal in children up to 2 years old, but it disappears as the child ages and the nervous system becomes more developed. It may disappear as early as 12 months. The presence of a Babinskis reflex after age 2 is a sign of damage to the nerve paths connecting the spinal cord and the brain (the corticospinal tract). This tract runs down both sides of the spinal cord, therefore a Babinskis reflex can occur on one side or on both sides. An abnormal Babinskis reflex can be temporary or permanent. Causes Generalized tonic-clonic seizure (there may be a temporary Babinskis reflex for a short time after a seizure) Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrigs disease) Brain tumor (if it injures or puts pressure on the corticospinal tract) Familial periodic paralysis Friedreichs ataxia Head injury Hepatic encephalopathy Meningitis Multiple sclerosis Pernicious anemia Poliomyelitis (some forms) Rabies Spinal cord injury Spinal cord tumor Stroke Syringomyelia Tuberculosis (when it affects the spine) Home Care Typically, a person (older than an infant) who has a Babinskis reflex will also have incoordination, weakness, and difficulty with muscle control. Safety is important to prevent the risk of injury. The person may need assistance with activity, and the environment should be kept free of hazards. When to Contact a Medical Professional This finding is usually discovered by the health care provider, and the affected person usually is not aware of its presence. What to Expect at Your Office Visit The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the patients symptoms and medical history. The physical examination will include a complete nervous system (neurological) examination. Diagnostic testing may include: MRI scan of the head or MRI scan of the spine Angiography of the head Somatosensory evoked potentials Lumbar puncture and analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid Alternative Names Reflex - Babinskis; Extensor plantar reflex; Babinskis sign
Posted on: Thu, 06 Nov 2014 12:49:16 +0000
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