A novel exaggerated "spino-bulbo-spinal like" reflex of lower brainstem origin.

BACKGROUND

Many different oligosynaptic reflexes are known to originate in the lower brainstem which share phenomenological and neurophysiological similarities.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and discuss the differences and aberrancies among these reflexes, which are hard to discern clinically using neurophysiological investigations with the help of a case report.

METHODS

We describe the clinical and neurophysiological assessment of a young man who had a childhood history of opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome with residual mild ataxia and myoclonic jerks in the distal extremities presenting with subacute onset total body jerks sensitive to sound and touch (in a limited dermatomal distribution), refractory to medications.

RESULTS

Based on clinical characteristics and insights gained from neurophysiological testing we could identify a novel reflex of caudal brainstem origin.

CONCLUSIONS

The reflex described is likely an exaggerated normal reflex, likely triggered by a dolichoectatic vertebral arterial compression and shares characteristics of different reflexes known to originate in caudal brainstem, which subserve distinctive roles in human postural control.