Applying the extensor digitorum reflex to neurological examination.

AIM: To determine the value of the extensor digitorum reflex in neurologic examination.

METHODS

The extensor digitorum, biceps, and brachioradialis reflexes were elicited in 65 patients with hemiplegia and upper-limb paralysis and in a control group of 120 apparently healthy people. Reflexes were elicited by both conventional means and a new method for the extensor digitorum reflex. The sensitivity and specificity of the extensor digitorum reflex were compared with that of the conventional biceps and brachioradialis reflexes to evaluate the value of the extensor digitorum reflex for neurologic examination.

RESULTS

The sensitivity of the extensor digitorum, biceps, and brachioradialis reflexes were 93.65%, 90.48%, and 90.48%, respectively. The specificity of the extensor digitorum, biceps, and brachioradialis reflexes were 95.83%, 94.17%, and 93.33%, respectively. The diagnostic efficacies of the extensor digitorum, biceps, and brachioradialis reflexes were 95.08%, 92.90%, and 91.26%, respectively. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in sensitivity, specificity, or accuracy among the extensor digitorum, biceps or brachioradialis reflexes in neurologic examination.

CONCLUSIONS

The extensor digitorum reflex is a sensitive and useful deep tendon reflex and is suitable for widespread use in neurological examination.