Palmomental reflex

Palmomental reflex is a primitive reflex found in infants and disappears as the child grows. It can reappear in adults under certain neurological conditions. The reflex is elicited by stroking the palm, which results in a twitch of the chin muscles.

Overview

The Palmomental reflex is a primitive reflex that is present in infants and disappears as the child matures. It is named for the areas of the body involved in the reflex: the palm of the hand and the mentalis muscle in the chin. The reflex is elicited by stroking the palm of the hand, which results in a twitch of the chin muscles. This reflex is considered normal in infants but is generally not present in healthy adults. If the reflex reappears in adults, it can be a sign of certain neurological conditions.

Elicitation

The Palmomental reflex is elicited by stroking the thenar eminence (the fleshy mass at the base of the thumb) with a blunt instrument such as the end of a reflex hammer. The stroke should be firm and swift, moving from the wrist towards the base of the thumb. If the reflex is present, the mentalis muscle in the chin will twitch or contract briefly.

Clinical significance

In adults, the presence of the Palmomental reflex can be a sign of a neurological disorder. It is often seen in conditions that involve damage to the frontal lobe of the brain, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, dementia, and multiple sclerosis. However, the reflex can also be present in healthy individuals, particularly in those who are elderly or fatigued. Therefore, the presence of the reflex alone is not sufficient for a diagnosis, and other clinical signs and symptoms must also be considered.

See also

• Primitive reflexes
• Neurological examination
• Frontal lobe

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