Question

What is the difference between decorticate and decerebrate posturing?

A. Decorticate posturing is a more severe form of decerebrate posturing.
B. Decorticate posturing involves rigid extension of all limbs, while decerebrate posturing involves flexion.
C. Decorticate posturing is a normal response to pain, while decerebrate posturing is abnormal.
D. Decerebrate posturing is a normal response to pain, while decorticate posturing is abnormal.

Answer 1

Decorticate posturing involves flexion of the upper limbs and extension of the lower limbs, while decerebrate posturing involves extension of all limbs. Both responses are abnormal and suggest brain dysfunction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Decorticate and decerebrate posturing are both abnormal motor responses that can occur after damage to the brain. The main difference between the two is the position of the limbs. Decorticate posturing involves flexion of the upper limbs (arms towards the chest) and extension of the lower limbs (legs straight and toes pointed downward). Decerebrate posturing, on the other hand, involves extension of all limbs (arms and legs straight and toes pointed downward).

These posturing responses are abnormal and indicate significant brain dysfunction. Decorticate posturing is usually indicative of damage to the cerebral hemispheres, whereas decerebrate posturing typically suggests damage to the brainstem. These responses are often seen in severe brain injuries or certain neurological conditions.