A spasm in the muscles in the forearm when a tourniquet is applied to the upper arm, which causes the index and middle fingers to extend. It is a sign of latent tetany, showing that the blood contains too little calcium. [After Armand Trousseau (1801-67), French physician].
Carpal tetany elicited when the brachial or forearm region is compressed due to hypocalcemia.
A muscular spasm of the hand and wrist resulting from pressure applied to nerves and vessels of the upper arm. It is indicative of latent tetany, usually as a result of hypocalcemia.