Primitive reflexes generally diminish within the first few months, except which reflex?

Primitive reflexes generally diminish within the first few months, except which reflex?

• A. Moro
• B. Babinski
• C. Sucking
• D. Rooting

Answer: (B)

Infants have automatic reflexes that fade as the nervous system matures. Most primitive reflexes disappear within the first few months as cortical control develops. The Moro reflex, for example, typically ends around 4–6 months, and rooting and sucking reflexes are replaced by voluntary actions by about the same early period. The plantar Babinski reflex, however, is a normal finding in infancy and can persist much longer—often up to 12–24 months—as the corticospinal pathways continue to mature. Because of this, Babinski is the exception among these reflexes to fading early. If a Babinski sign remains after infancy or appears later in life, it can indicate a neurological issue.

Infants have automatic reflexes that fade as the nervous system matures. Most primitive reflexes disappear within the first few months as cortical control develops. The Moro reflex, for example, typically ends around 4–6 months, and rooting and sucking reflexes are replaced by voluntary actions by about the same early period. The plantar Babinski reflex, however, is a normal finding in infancy and can persist much longer—often up to 12–24 months—as the corticospinal pathways continue to mature. Because of this, Babinski is the exception among these reflexes to fading early. If a Babinski sign remains after infancy or appears later in life, it can indicate a neurological issue.