Which of the following is not a component of Moro’s reflex?

Which of the following is not a component of Moro’s reflex?
a Extension of elbow
b Flexion of shoulder
c Opening of hand
d Abduction of shoulder

b Flexion of shoulder---answer

# startle
# spreading out the arms (abduction)
# unspreading the arms (adduction)
# crying

The primary significance of this reflex is in evaluating integration of the central nervous system (CNS), since the reflex involves 4 distinct components:

1. startle
2. spreading out the arms (abduction)
3. unspreading the arms (adduction)
4. crying (usually)

Absence of any component (except crying) or any asymmetry in the movements is abnormal, as is persistence of the reflex in older infants, children and adults. However, in individuals with cerebral palsy, persistence and exacerbation of this reflex is common.