What symptom may indicate spinal cord damage in a newborn?

The absence of the anal wink reflex in a newborn is a significant indicator that may suggest spinal cord damage. This reflex, which involves the contraction of the anal sphincter in response to a stimulus on the skin around the anus, is an important neurological assessment tool in newborns. Its presence confirms functional integrity of the lower spinal cord segments and the related nerve pathways. When this reflex is absent, it often points to potential issues with the spinal cord, such as lesions or other forms of neuronal damage, specifically around the spinal segments responsible for this reflex (S2-S4).

Understanding this reflex helps clinicians assess the neurological status of the neonate, particularly in cases where there are concerns about spinal cord injury from birth trauma or congenital conditions.