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Decorticate Posture
Definition Decorticate posture is an abnormal posturing indicated by rigidity, flexion of the arms, clenched fists, and extended legs. The arms are bent inward toward the body with the wrists and fingers bent and held on the chest. Presence of this type of posturing implies severe damage to the brain with immediate need for medical attention.
Overview & Considerations
Decorticate posture indicates damage to the corticospinal tract (the pathway between the brain and spinal cord). Although a serious sign, it is usually more favorable than decerebrate posture.
Decorticate posture may progress to decerebrate posture, or the two may alternate. The posturing may occur on one or both sides of the body.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Decorticate Posture: Overview & Considerations
• Decorticate Posture: Common Causes
• Decorticate Posture: Home Care & Treatment
• Call your Health Care Provider if
• What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Brain Abscess
• Increased Intracranial Pressure
• Primary Brain Tumor
• Stroke
Tests & Exams
• Cerebral Angiography
• Cranial CT Scan
• EEG
• Intracranial Pressure Monitoring
• MRI of the Head
Other Topics
• Abnormal Posturing
• Consciousness - Decreased
• Decerebrate Posture
• Head Injury
• Physical Examination
Review Date : 5/8/2003
Reviewed By : Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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