H reflexes and F waves. Fundamentals, normal and abnormal patterns.
H reflexes and F waves have become integral parts of the electrodiagnostic examination in general, and nerve conduction studies in particular. They supplement the sensory and motor conduction studies by assessing the entire nerve segments including proximal portions of the motor and sensory axons. H reflexes and F waves have their own advantages and limitations, similarities and differences. These "late" responses are useful in patients with radiculopathies, plexopathies, and peripheral polyneuropathies, including the Guillain-Barre syndrome. They are also helpful in spinal cord disorders.
Fisher
Morris A
MA
Department of Neurology, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, USA. morris.fisher@med.va.gov
D020516:Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology; D004568:Electrodiagnosis / Q000379:methods*; D004576:Electromyography / Q000379:methods*; D020275:Guillain-Barre Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology; D006181:H-Reflex / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009046:Motor Neurons / Q000502:physiology; D009431:Neural Conduction / Q000502:physiology; D009468:Neuromuscular Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D010525:Peripheral Nerves / Q000503:physiopathology; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011843:Radiculopathy / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013118:Spinal Cord Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology