Babinski Flexion Symptom

Babinski flexion symptom: understanding and clinical significance

The Babinski flexion sign, also known as the Babinski sign or pathological digital Babinski sign, is one of the key neurological signs used in clinical practice to assess nervous system function. This symptom was first described by the French neurologist Jean Francois Ferdinand Babinsky at the end of the 19th century and has since become one of the main indicators of pyramidal system defects.

The essence of the Babinski flexion sign is as follows: when the sole is stimulated by an external object, the normal reaction is to bend the big toe down towards the heel. However, in the presence of pathology in the upper motor neurons, such as damage to the pyramidal system, an abnormal response is observed in which the big toe expands upward towards the shin and is accompanied by an extension of the remaining toes. This phenomenon is called pathological digital Babinski sign.

The clinical significance of the Babinski flexion sign lies in its ability to indicate the presence of a pyramidal system lesion, such as upper motor neuron damage, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, or inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Typically, in adult patients over two years of age, the Babinski flexion sign is considered pathological and is a sign of a neurological deficit.

However, in young children (up to two years old) a physiological digital Babinski sign is observed, which is considered normal. This is due to the immaturity of the pyramidal system in infants and toddlers, and this symptom usually disappears after a certain age.

To perform the Babinski flexion sign test, the physician uses a sharp object, such as a stick or the handle of a percussion hammer, to stimulate the patient's sole. The symptom is considered positive if there is a pathological reaction with the extension of the thumb upward.

It is important to note that the Babinski flexion symptom is not specific only to the pyramidal system. Other neurological conditions, such as spinal cord inflammation or extrinsic motor neuron disease, may also test positive on this test. Therefore, when interpreting the results of the Babinski flexion sign test, the clinician must consider other clinical findings and symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the cause of the observed deficit.

In conclusion, the Babinski flexion sign is an important neurological sign that indicates possible involvement of the pyramidal system and other neurological conditions. Its clinical significance lies in its ability to help the doctor make a diagnosis and determine further treatment tactics. However, other clinical data and circumstances must be taken into account to accurately interpret test results. Therefore, if a pathological digital Babinski sign is detected, it is recommended that you contact a qualified healthcare professional for further evaluation and consultation.