Which sign is used to assess meningitis?

• A. Babinski sign
• B. Romberg sign
• C. Brudzinski sign
• D. Tinel sign

Answer: (C)

Brudzinski sign is a sign of meningeal irritation, which is common in meningitis. To test it, have the patient lying on their back and gently flex the neck. If this neck flexion causes the hips and knees to flex automatically, the sign is positive. This reflex occurs because the inflamed meninges heighten sensitivity and stiffness, so movement of the neck triggers a protective response in the lower limbs, signaling meningeal irritation. The other signs point to different issues: Babinski sign indicates an upper motor neuron lesion, Romberg sign assesses proprioception and balance, and Tinel sign detects nerve compression or irritation.