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Kernig sign
A clinical hallmark of meningitis, inflammation of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. The test for Kernig sign is done by having the person lie supine (flat on the back), flex the thigh so that it is at a right angle to the trunk, and completely extend the leg at the knee joint. If the leg cannot be completely extended due to pain, this is Kernig sign.

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Ker·nig sign 'ker-nig- or Kernig's sign 'ker-nigz- n an indication usu. present in meningitis that consists of pain and resistance on attempting to extend the leg at the knee with the thigh flexed at the hip
Kernig Vladimir Mikhailovich (1840-1917)
Russian physician. Kernig first described his sign for cerebrospinal meningitis in 1882. In 1907 he published a full description.

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Ker·nig sign (kerґnig) [Vladimir Mikhailovich Kernig, Russian physician, 1840–1917] see under sign.

Medical dictionary. 2011.