This is said to be present if, when a sharp body, such as a key, is drawn along the sole of the foot, instead of the toes bending down towards the sole as usual, the big toe turns upwards and the other toes spread apart. After the age of about two years, the presence of this reflex means that there may be a severe disturbance in the brain. The Babinski reflex may occur transiently during COMA or after an epileptic fit so need not indicate permanent damage.