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Masseter reflex and blink reflex abnormalities in Chiari II malformation
J Koehler1, M Schwarz, P P Urban
1Department of Neurology, University of Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, D - 55101 Mainz, Germany. koehler@neurologie.klinik.uni-mainz.de
Muscle & Nerve
|May 16, 2001
Summary
Neurological reflexes like the masseter and blink reflex can indicate brainstem dysfunction in myelomeningocele patients with Chiari II malformation. Abnormalities, especially combined reflex issues, help identify symptomatic individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
Background:
- Myelomeningocele and Chiari II malformation are complex congenital conditions.
- Brainstem involvement is a significant concern in these patients.
- Assessing neurological reflexes offers a window into brainstem function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of masseter and blink reflexes.
- To differentiate between symptomatic and asymptomatic brainstem dysfunction in myelomeningocele patients with Chiari II malformation.
- To identify specific reflex patterns indicative of neurological compromise.
Main Methods:
- Assessed masseter reflex and blink reflex in 64 patients.
- Categorized patients into symptomatic (18) and asymptomatic (46) groups based on brainstem signs.
- Analyzed reflex abnormalities, including the late contralateral blink reflex component (R2c).
Main Results:
- Masseter reflex abnormalities were more common in symptomatic patients (P = 0.02).
- Blink reflex was highly sensitive, abnormal in 83% of symptomatic and 65% of asymptomatic patients.
- Combined abnormalities of masseter reflex and R2c were strongly associated with symptomatic patients (P = 0.002).
Conclusions:
- Masseter and blink reflexes are valuable tools for assessing brainstem function in myelomeningocele and Chiari II malformation.
- Combined reflex abnormalities, particularly involving the R2c component, significantly aid in identifying symptomatic brainstem dysfunction.
- These reflex evaluations can help stratify patients and guide clinical management.
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