Kernig's sign

Kernig's sign is a clinical sign, often used in the diagnosis of meningitis, which is inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord. The sign is named after the Russian physician who first described it, Vladimir Kernig.

Description

Kernig's sign is positive when the thigh is flexed at the hip and knee at 90 degree angles, and subsequent extension in the knee is painful (leading to resistance). This indicates meningeal irritation.

Medical use

Kernig's sign is used in the diagnosis of meningitis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. However, it is not very sensitive. In adults with suspected meningitis, a positive Kernig's sign is rare. The absence of Kernig's sign, or Brudzinski's sign, another clinical sign used in the diagnosis of meningitis, does not rule out meningitis.

History

The sign is named after Vladimir Mikhailovich Kernig, a Russian neurologist who described the sign in 1882.

See also

• Brudzinski's sign
• Meningitis
• Vladimir Kernig

References

Kernig's sign Resources
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