Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
hyperreflexia
Pronunciation: hy-per-ree-FLEX-ee-ah
Abnormally exaggerated reflexes indicating upper motor neuron damage.
Full Definition
Abnormally increased or exaggerated deep tendon reflexes that indicate damage to upper motor neurons in the brain or spinal cord. Hyperreflexia is characterized by brisk, sustained responses to reflex testing and may be accompanied by clonus. This finding is commonly associated with conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or other central nervous system disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Often graded as +3 or +4 on reflex scale. Distinguish from hyporeflexia (decreased reflexes).
In Context
- "Neurological examination revealed hyperreflexia in the lower extremities bilaterally." — Clinical assessment
- "The presence of hyperreflexia suggested upper motor neuron involvement in the disease process." — Diagnostic workup report
Also known as
exaggerated reflexes
brisk reflexes
Contrasted with
hyporeflexia
areflexia
Don't confuse with
hyporeflexia
clonus