Which sign is elicited by tapping the facial nerve on the face?

Which sign is elicited by tapping the facial nerve on the face?

• A. Trousseau sign
• B. Chvostek sign
• C. Babinski sign
• D. Romberg sign

Answer: (B)

Chvostek sign is elicited when the facial nerve is tapped anterior to the ear, causing twitching of facial muscles on the same side. This positive sign reflects increased neuromuscular excitability from low calcium levels (hypocalcemia). It helps indicate conditions like hypoparathyroidism or other states that lead to calcium deficiency and tetany risk. Other signs listed correspond to different mechanisms: Trousseau sign involves carpal spasms from cuff-induced ischemia, Babinski sign is an UMN indicator seen as toe extension with plantar stimulation, and Romberg sign tests balance and proprioception.

Chvostek sign is elicited when the facial nerve is tapped anterior to the ear, causing twitching of facial muscles on the same side. This positive sign reflects increased neuromuscular excitability from low calcium levels (hypocalcemia). It helps indicate conditions like hypoparathyroidism or other states that lead to calcium deficiency and tetany risk. Other signs listed correspond to different mechanisms: Trousseau sign involves carpal spasms from cuff-induced ischemia, Babinski sign is an UMN indicator seen as toe extension with plantar stimulation, and Romberg sign tests balance and proprioception.