The Babinski Sign

Question 1

Upper motor neuron syndrome occurs if the upper motor neurons that make up the ______________ tracts are damaged anywhere along their course.

Answer 1

CORTICOSPINAL TRACTS

Question 2

What is the course of the corticospinal tract?

Answer 2

CEREBRAL CORTEX
to
LOWER SPINAL CORD

Question 3

What will happen a few days after injury to the UMNs?

Answer 3

SPASTICITY
HYPERACTIVE REFLEXES
LOSS OF FINE MOVEMENTS
BABINSKI SIGN

Question 4

Name circumstances/pathologies which can cause damage to the UMNs?

Answer 4

STROKES
SUBDURAL HEMORRAHAGE
ABSCESSES and TUMORS
MENINGITIS and MS
TRAUMA to SPINAL CORD (incl. herniated discs)

Question 5

What is the normal adult reaction to sensory stimulation along the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot?

Answer 5

PLANTAR FLEXION of ALL TOES

Question 6

What is the abnormal adult reaction to sensory stimulation along the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot referred to as?

Answer 6

BABINSKI SIGN

Question 7

Describe the appearance of Babinski sign?

Answer 7

GREAT TOE DORSIFLEXED (extended)

OTHER TOES FAN OUT

Question 8

UMNs often control or ___________ reflexes.

Answer 8

INHIBIT

Question 9

Exaggerated deep tendon reflexes may be present due to a lesion where?

Answer 9

UMN

Question 10

What is the Babinski sign called in infants who experience the sign because corticospinal pathways are not fully myelinated until 12-18 months?

Answer 10

EXTENSOR REFLEX

Question 11

What inhibits the extensor reflex after 12-18 months?

Answer 11

FULLY MYELINATED PYRAMIDAL TRACTS