Neurologic Exam-Pediatric | Newborn | Abnormal | Reflexes - Deep Tendon Reflexes

Newborn - Abnormal 20 - Reflexes - Deep Tendon Reflexes: Testing deep tendon reflexes on this baby demonstrates that they are present. This is important in trying to sort out if the baby has low tone from an upper motor neuron lesion or if he has a lower motor neuron or muscle disorder. In older children and adults, an upper motor lesion causes spasticity but in babies an upper motor neuron lesion can cause hypotonia. A disease of the lower motor neuron is unlikely with the deep tendon reflexes being present. The baby could still have a muscle disorder but inspection of the muscles does not show diminished mass and the baby's behavior and the rest of the neurological exam indicates an upper motor neuron problem.