A positive Babinski sign in an adult indicates which condition?

A positive Babinski sign in an adult indicates which condition?

• A. Lower motor neuron dysfunction
• B. Cerebrospinal tract dysfunction
• C. Corticospinal tract dysfunction
• D. Cerebellar injury

Answer: (C)

A positive Babinski sign in an adult is indicative of an upper motor neuron dysfunction, particularly related to the corticospinal tract. When the sole of the foot is stimulated, a normal response in adults is for the toes to flex downward. However, if the response is upward extension of the big toe and splaying of the other toes, this reflects a dysfunction in the cortical pathways that control motor function. In adults, a positive Babinski sign typically suggests damage or dysfunction in the corticospinal tract, which is involved in the voluntary control of movement. This dysfunction can arise from various conditions, including strokes, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injuries that affect the descending motor pathways. Therefore, when assessing the neurological health of an adult patient, a positive Babinski can serve as an important clinical sign for evaluating potential corticospinal tract issues.

A positive Babinski sign in an adult is indicative of an upper motor neuron dysfunction, particularly related to the corticospinal tract. When the sole of the foot is stimulated, a normal response in adults is for the toes to flex downward. However, if the response is upward extension of the big toe and splaying of the other toes, this reflects a dysfunction in the cortical pathways that control motor function.

In adults, a positive Babinski sign typically suggests damage or dysfunction in the corticospinal tract, which is involved in the voluntary control of movement. This dysfunction can arise from various conditions, including strokes, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injuries that affect the descending motor pathways. Therefore, when assessing the neurological health of an adult patient, a positive Babinski can serve as an important clinical sign for evaluating potential corticospinal tract issues.