How Do You Spell SUPERFICIAL REFLEX?

1. A superficial reflex refers to an involuntary, automated response elicited by stimulating certain areas of the skin's surface. It involves the activation of sensory nerve endings, which subsequently transmit signals to the central nervous system for processing, ultimately leading to an involuntary motor response. Unlike deep tendon reflexes that involve muscles and tendons, superficial reflexes involve the stimulation of sensory receptors present in the skin.

   Superficial reflexes are typically elicited by specific stimuli, such as touch, temperature changes, or pain. Common examples of superficial reflexes include the plantar reflex, which causes the toes to curl downwards when the sole of the foot is stroked; the abdominal reflex, which causes the contraction of abdominal musculature when the abdominal skin is touched; and the corneal reflex, which triggers the closing of eyelids when the cornea is touched.

   These reflexes are mediated by certain nerve pathways, predominantly through the spinal cord and somatic motor pathways. They play a crucial role in examining the integrity and function of both the sensory and motor pathways of the nervous system. Abnormal or absent superficial reflexes can indicate dysfunction or damage to specific sensory or motor nerve structures and can be useful in diagnosing certain neurological disorders.

   Overall, superficial reflexes provide important diagnostic information about the functioning of the nervous system and contribute to our understanding of the complex interactions between sensory and motor systems.

2. Skin r., an involuntary muscular contraction following irritation of the skin in the neighborhood.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for SUPERFICIAL REFLEX

The etymology of the word "superficial reflex" can be understood by breaking it down into its components:

1. Superficial: The word "superficial" comes from the Latin word "superficialis", which means "on the surface". It is derived from the Latin word "superficies", meaning "surface".

2. Reflex: The word "reflex" comes from the Latin word "reflexus", meaning "bent back" or "reflected". It is derived from the Latin word "re-" (back) and "flectere" (to bend).

Therefore, "superficial reflex" refers to a reflex action that happens on the surface of the body, often involving a simple reflex arc where sensory input is received and an immediate motor response is produced.