Trousseau Phenomenon

TROUSSEAU PHENOMENON (Trousseau), the appearance of typical tetanic spasms in the hand when the upper arm is tightly compressed with an Esmarch bandage or tourniquet, and sometimes even with strong pressure on the bicipital sulcus of the corresponding hand. The spasms sometimes appear only 2-3 minutes after compression of the arm, so for obtaining the T. phenomenon, it is more advisable to use an Esmarch bandage or tourniquet on the arm. The T. phenomenon is pathognomonic for tetany, and its presence in individuals not suffering from tetanic attacks is a sign of latent tetany. In severe cases of tetany, the T. phenomenon can be observed not only on the arm where compression is applied, but also on the opposite arm, which suggests that the reflex occurs through the central nervous system. Experiments by Frankl-Hochwart definitely demonstrate the connection of the T. phenomenon with increased mechanical excitability of the nerves: having produced experimental tetany in a dog, this author could induce an attack of tetanic spasms by simply light contact with the exposed nerves of the corresponding limb, while even strong pressure on the vessels had no effect. In children with spasmophilia (see), an attempt to elicit the T. phenomenon may cause crying followed by laryngospasm and subsequently the development of generalized spasms. Similar to the T. phenomenon in its nature and origin is the Schlesinger phenomenon observed in tetany - spasms of the knee extensors when the foot is maximally rotated outward after vigorous abduction of the straightened leg at the hip joint.