Related Experiment Videos
Jaw, blink and corneal reflex latencies in multiple sclerosis
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Testing trigeminal reflexes aids multiple sclerosis diagnosis. Abnormalities in jaw, blink, and corneal reflexes were found in 74% of patients, offering valuable diagnostic insights.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Trigeminal nerve involvement is common in MS, impacting facial sensation and reflexes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of jaw, blink, and corneal reflexes in patients with multiple sclerosis.
- To determine the incidence and patterns of trigeminal reflex abnormalities in MS.
Main Methods:
- Recorded jaw, blink, and corneal reflexes in 54 patients with suspected or definite multiple sclerosis.
- Classified patients based on Schumacher's criteria for MS diagnosis.
- Analyzed reflex abnormalities in relation to clinical symptoms and MS classification.
Main Results:
- At least one abnormal trigeminal reflex was detected in 74% of the patients studied.
- While the blink and corneal reflexes showed higher abnormality rates, the jaw reflex was uniquely abnormal in four cases.
- Abnormalities were observed in nine patients inconsistent with their clinical presentation, highlighting the diagnostic value of reflex testing.
Conclusions:
- Combined testing of trigeminal reflexes is a valuable tool for diagnosing multiple sclerosis.
- Reflex abnormalities can indicate significant trigeminal system damage, aiding in MS diagnosis even when clinical symptoms are unclear.