Why is there a Kernig sign in meningitis?
Why does Kernig’s sign happen? Kernig’s sign occurs as a result of meningeal inflammation caused by movement of the spinal cord or nerves against the meninges. Extension of the leg while performing Kernig’s sign stretches the hamstring, which pulls on the surrounding tissue near the inflamed spinal canal and meninges.
What is Kernig’s test?
Kernig sign is a bedside physical exam maneuver used since its description in the 19th century to help in the diagnosis of meningitis. A positive test is the elicitation of pain or resistance with passive extension of the patient’s knees past 135 degrees in the setting of meningeal irritation.
Do you have Kernig’s sign or Brudzinski sign in meningitis?
Similar to Kernig’s sign, research has shown that many people with meningitis don’t have the Brudzinski sign or nuchal rigidity.
How accurate are Brudzinski’s sign and nuchal rigidity in diagnosing meningitis?
Brudzinski’s sign and nuchal rigidity are not accurate in diagnosing meningitis in infants younger than 6 months and in elderly populations. In 1991, a prospective study by Uchihara and Tsukagoshi reported a sensitivity of 9% and specificity of 100% for Kernig’s sign.[7]
What is Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s study of tubercular meningitis?
The majority of examined patients described in Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s original research papers were children affected by tubercular meningitis. Brudzinski’s sign and nuchal rigidity are not accurate in diagnosing meningitis in infants younger than 6 months and in elderly populations.
What are the limitations of Kernig’s test for meningitis?
Usefulness and limitations. Although the sensitivity is quite low, the high specificity suggests that if Kernig’s or Brudzinski’s sign is present, there is a high likelihood for meningitis. The two signs, Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s, are often performed together in clinical practice.