The spelling of the word "Hellats sign" is unusual and may be confusing to some. However, it follows the rules of English phonetics. "Hellats" is pronounced as /hɛlæts/ with the "ts" representing the voiceless alveolar affricate sound. Meanwhile, "sign" is pronounced as /saɪn/ with the "gn" representing the silent "g" and the "n" pronounced as the alveolar nasal sound. The Hellats sign refers to a diagnostic test used to assess hip stability and is named after its creator, Dr. Andrew Hellat.
Hellats sign, also known as the "reverse clenched fist sign," is a medical term used to describe a specific physical indicator typically observed during physical examination of the hands and fingers. This sign is characterized by flexion and retraction of the fingers into a fist-like position, but with the thumb inside the clenched fingers, rather than opposing them.
This physical finding is often associated with certain medical conditions, particularly neuromuscular disorders affecting the motor system, such as dystonia or choreoathetosis. It is believed to be caused by abnormal muscle activity and coordination, resulting in an involuntary contraction of the finger flexor muscles. The term "Hellats sign" stems from the surname of French neurologist Jean Louis Hellats, who first described this phenomenon in the late 19th century.
The Hellats sign is commonly assessed by clinicians during physical examinations to help diagnose and monitor the progress of various disorders affecting motor control. Its presence or absence can provide valuable insights into the specific underlying condition or disease. However, the Hellats sign is not pathognomonic, meaning it is not exclusive to a single disorder and can be observed in multiple conditions. Therefore, further investigation and evaluation are usually required to determine the underlying cause of this sign and establish an accurate diagnosis.