Hoffmann reflex

Hoff·mann sign

(hof'mahn),

1. in latent tetany mild mechanical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve causes severe pain;

2. flexion of the terminal phalanx of the thumb and of the second and third phalanges of one or more of the fingers when the volar surface of the terminal phalanx of the fingers is flicked. Synonym(s): digital reflex, Hoffmann reflex, snapping reflex

Hoff·mann sign

, Hoffmann reflex (hawf'mahn sīn, rē'fleks)

1. In latent tetany, mild mechanical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve causes severe pain.

2. Flexion of the terminal phalanx of the thumb and of the second and third phalanges of one or more of the fingers when the volar surface of the terminal phalanx of the fingers is flicked.
Synonym(s): digital reflex.

Hoffmann reflex

An abnormal reflex found in patients with damaged pyramidal tracts of the brain. Flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint of the middle finger makes the thumb of the same hand flex and adduct. Synonym: Hoffmann sign

See also: Hoffmann, Johann

Hoffmann,

Johann, German neurologist, 1857-1919.

Hoffmann muscular atrophy - progressive dysfunction of the anterior horn cells in the spinal cord and brainstem cranial nerves. Synonym(s): infantile spinal muscular atrophy

Hoffmann phenomenon - excessive irritability of the sensory nerves to electrical or mechanical stimuli in tetany.

Hoffmann reflex - Synonym(s): Hoffmann sign

Hoffmann sign - in latent tetany, mild mechanical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve causes severe pain. Synonym(s): Hoffmann reflex

Werdnig-Hoffmann disease - Synonym(s): Werdnig-Hoffmann muscular atrophy

Werdnig-Hoffmann muscular atrophy - see under Werdnig