Astvatsaturova Nasolabial Reflex

The Astvatsatur nasolabial (nasolabial, nasolabial or nasolabial) reflex is one of the most important reflexes in neurology. It was discovered by the Soviet neurologist Mikhail Ivanovich Astvatsaturov in 1887.

The Astvatsatur reflex is the reaction of a muscle located on the inner surface of the lip to irritation of the nerve that goes to this muscle. It occurs when the trigeminal nerve, which runs through the face and has many branches to various muscles and organs, is irritated.

The reflex is key to diagnosing disorders of the nervous system, such as brain disorders, brain injuries and other diseases that can lead to disruption of nerve pathways.

In order to induce the reflex, it is necessary to stimulate the trigeminal nerve on the patient's face. This can be done, for example, using an electric current that is applied to the nerve through a special device. The reflex manifests itself in the contraction of the muscle on the inside of the lip, which can be seen visually.

If the reflex is absent or impaired, this may indicate various diseases of the nervous system. For example, the absence of a reflex may indicate damage to the trigeminal nerve or a problem with brain function. Also, a reflex disorder can be caused by a malfunction of other nerves that pass through the face.

Thus, the Astvatsatur nasolabial or nasolabial reflex is an important tool for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system. Its absence or violation may indicate certain disorders that require additional research and treatment.

(M.I. Astvatsiaturov (1879 - 1951), Soviet neurologist). The nasolabial reflex (nasolabial reflex) is a physiological reflex-protective mechanism aimed at preserving the integrity of the soft palate and pharynx during a fall during a lack of coordination of movements, especially during acceleration during acceleration and braking while walking or running. In pathological conditions (Parkinson's disease, hemiparesis) it may be impaired. This is a reflex-protective mechanism of the human body that prevents the larynx from descending and prevents the reflex closure of the airways. It occurs when there is a risk to breathing. To implement it, the muscles of the soft palate, pharyngeal muscles and eye muscles are involved. Thanks to the reflex from the nasolabial folds, swallowing is stopped, the direction of air flow into the respiratory tract changes, and salivation decreases. The effectiveness of this mechanism ranges from 40 to 75%, depending on the situation of danger (childbirth, state of alcohol intoxication).