While motor milestones–the neurodevelopmental functional end point of the transitioning of the immature and mature primitive reflexes into volitional activity–have been highlighted in predicting future motor function, the primitive reflexes represent the earliest neurodevelopmental markers available for study. By pediatricians becoming familiar with their quantitative and qualitative aspects coupled with the time of their appearance and suppression, they will have this neuromotor tool available for the early detection of a significant motor handicap.
Primitive reflexes have been highlighted since they are available at birth to be clinically evaluated and followed during sequential office visits during the first 6 months of life, the time during which infants are more closely followed at office visits. Delay or deviancy (nonsequential appearance) of motor milestones are preceded by an exaggeration or delayed suppression of the primitive reflexes.
It is anticipated that the study and standardization of an intrauterine primitive reflex profile will eventually lead to the identification of a high-risk fetus. This endeavor will be fostered by the further development and refinement of non-invasive roentgenographic techniques.
