Decerebrate posture

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Conditions associated with decerebrate posture require immediate hospital treatment.

Abnormal posturing of any sort usually accompanies reduced consciousness. Anyone exhibiting an abnormal posture should be examined promptly by the health care provider.

In some conditions such as prolonged coma, these behaviors can persist for an extended period of time.

Emergency measures may begin immediately, including placement of an artificial airway (breathing tube) and assistance with breathing. You will likely be hospitalized in intensive care. Once you are stabilized, a medical history will be obtained from family members and a physical examination will be performed.

Medical history questions documenting decerebrate posture in detail may include:

• When did this behavior start?
• Is there a pattern to the occurrences?
• Is it always the same type of posture?
• Is there any significant medical history (such as a known head injury)?
• What other symptoms preceded or accompanied the abnormal posturing?

The physical examination will include a complete neurological assessment.

Diagnostic testing may include:

• Cerebral angiography
• CT or MRI of the head
• EEG
• ICP monitoring

Review Date: 04/28/2005
Reviewed By: Chitra R. Uppaluri, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.