Brudzinski's neck sign
System: Neurological Signs · All neurological signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
Passive flexion of the patient's neck causes the hips and knees to flex involuntarily.
What a positive finding suggests
Associated with meningeal irritation, classically in meningitis.
◈ Behind the name
Józef Brudziński (1874–1917), Polish paediatrician who described several meningeal signs in children.
Related signs — Neurological Signs
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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.