Babinski's sign

Babinski's sign is a neurological examination technique used to evaluate the central nervous system and specifically to detect damage to the pyramidal tract. It is named after the French neurologist Joseph Babinski, who first described the sign in 1896.

Definition

Babinski's sign is a pathological reflex that is elicited when the sole of the foot is firmly stroked. The normal response is for the big toe to flex towards the sole of the foot. However, in individuals with damage to the pyramidal tract, the big toe extends upwards towards the top of the foot and the other toes fan out. This is known as a positive Babinski's sign.

Clinical significance

A positive Babinski's sign can indicate a number of neurological disorders, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and brain tumor. It is also commonly seen in infants up to about 2 years of age, as the pyramidal tract is not fully developed.

Procedure

The test is performed by a healthcare professional who uses a blunt instrument to firmly stroke the sole of the foot from the heel to the toes. The response of the toes is then observed.

History

The sign is named after Joseph Babinski, a French neurologist who first described the reflex in 1896. Babinski's work was instrumental in the development of neurology as a medical specialty.

See also

• Clonus
• Hoffmann's sign
• Neurological examination
• Pathological reflexes