clonus

[ kloh-nuhs ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, Pathology.

, plural clo·nus·es.

a rapid succession of flexions and extensions of a group of muscles, usually signifying an affection of the brain or spinal cord.

clonus

/ ˈkləʊnəs; ˈklɒnɪk; klɒˈnɪsɪtɪ /

a type of convulsion characterized by rapid contraction and relaxation of a muscle

Origin of clonus¹

1810–20; < New Latin < Greek klónos turmoil

Origin of clonus¹

C19: from New Latin, from Greek klonos turmoil

How does clonus compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

No foot clonus, no Babinski; abdominal reflexes present, cremasteric not elicited; catalepsy not always present.

Both deep and superficial reflexes exaggerated; ankle clonus both sides; hyperæsthesia of abdomen and face.

Upon tapping, the quadriceps tendon caused a brisk marked contraction of thigh muscles, followed by mild clonus.

Tapping of one knee tended to set musculature of opposite knee in mild clonus of short duration.

Musculature of legs was in a constant mild clonus, and the right foot was kept in position of talipes equinovarus.

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

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