Chvostek sign

Definition

Chvostek sign is a clinical indicator of hypocalcemia, where tapping the facial nerve leads to twitching of facial muscles. It is commonly used to assess neuromuscular excitability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chvostek sign is often seen in conditions like hypoparathyroidism and vitamin D deficiency.
2. A positive Chvostek sign indicates increased neuromuscular excitability due to low calcium levels.
3. This sign is elicited by tapping the area just in front of the ear at the angle of the jaw.
4. It can also occur in other electrolyte imbalances but is most specifically associated with hypocalcemia.
5. Chvostek sign and Trousseau's sign are both used to diagnose tetany in patients with suspected hypocalcemia.

Review Questions

• What does a positive Chvostek sign indicate?
• How is Chvostek sign elicited during a physical examination?
• In which conditions might you expect to see a positive Chvostek sign?

Related terms

Trousseau's Sign: A physical exam finding indicative of hypocalcemia, where carpal spasm occurs after inflating a blood pressure cuff.

Hypocalcemia: A condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood, leading to increased neuromuscular excitability.

Hypoparathyroidism: A disorder where decreased parathyroid hormone production results in low calcium levels and symptoms such as muscle cramps and spasms.