Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Brudzinski Sign

also known as Nape-of-the-neck sign
🎬
Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

With the patient supine and the limbs extended, place one hand behind the head and passively flex the neck, bringing the chin toward the chest. A positive sign is involuntary flexion of the hips and knees in response to the neck flexion.

How to Interpret

Showing all 1 finding

Meningitis

Brudzinski's sign positive
Rule in
Not helpful
Rule out
Not helpful
Evidence:Limited

References

  • Thomas KE, Hasbun R, Jekel J, Quagliarello VJ. The diagnostic accuracy of Kernig's sign, Brudzinski's sign, and nuchal rigidity in adults with suspected meningitis. Clin Infect Dis. 2002;35(1):46-52. doi:10.1086/340979. PubMed: 12060874
  • Brudzinski J. Un signe nouveau sur les membres inférieurs dans les méningites chez les enfants (signe de la nuque). Arch Med Enf. 1909;12:745-752.

Related Diagnoses

Meningitis

Related Systems / Regions

NeckNeurological

Related Bedside Tests

🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Nuchal Rigidity
Rule in:NHMeningitis
Rule out:NHMeningitis
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Kernig Sign
Rule in:NHMeningitis
Rule out:NHMeningitis
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Ophthalmoscopy
aka Fundoscopy
Rule in:VHGlaucoma, SHDiabetic Retinopathy, MHIncreased Intracranial Pressure +13 more
Rule out:SHGlaucoma, MHDiabetic Retinopathy, MHIncreased Intracranial Pressure +13 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Carotid Artery Palpation
Rule in:HAortic Stenosis, HTakayasu Arteritis, SHAortic Dissection +7 more
Rule out:SHAortic Stenosis, IEAortic Regurgitation, IECarotid Artery Stenosis +5 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Heart Rate
Rule in:HAtrial Fibrillation, SHHypothyroidism, SHPneumonia +7 more
Rule out:VHAtrial Fibrillation, MHAdverse Short-term Outcome in Confirmed Pulmonary Embolism, IECardiac Tamponade +5 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Mouth and Tongue Inspection
Rule in:SHMeasles, IEAcute Leukemia, IEAdrenal Insufficiency +9 more
Rule out:SHHypovolemia, MHMeasles, IEAcute Leukemia +10 more