BECHTEREWS DISEASES REFLEXES Meaning and
Definition
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Bechterew's disease reflexes, also known as ankylosing spondylitis reflexes, refer to a set of abnormal reflex responses that are commonly observed in individuals with Bechterew's disease, a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. These reflexes are a result of the involvement of the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for controlling involuntary bodily functions.
The most notable reflex affected in Bechterew's disease is the Achilles reflex, also known as the ankle jerk reflex. Normally, this reflex is triggered by tapping the Achilles tendon, which stretches the associated muscle and sends a signal to the spinal cord, resulting in a brief contraction of the calf muscle. However, in individuals with Bechterew's disease, this reflex may be exaggerated or absent. An exaggerated Achilles reflex results in an excessive contraction of the calf muscle, while an absent reflex indicates a lack of response.
In addition to the Achilles reflex, other reflexes associated with Bechterew's disease may also be affected, such as the patellar reflex (knee jerk reflex) or the triceps reflex (elbow jerk reflex). These reflex abnormalities are believed to be linked to the inflammation and damage occurring in the spinal cord as a result of the disease.
The examination of reflexes plays a diagnostic role in Bechterew's disease, as the presence or absence of these reflex abnormalities can provide valuable information to healthcare professionals in the assessment of a patient's condition and the monitoring of disease progression.
