Which term refers to paralysis of all four limbs?

The term that refers to paralysis of all four limbs is quadriplegia. This condition results from damage to the spinal cord in the cervical region, which affects motor control and sensation in both the upper and lower extremities. Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, indicates complete loss of function due to neurological impairment affecting all four limbs, leading to the inability to move or feel anything in those areas.

Understanding quadriplegia is essential, especially when discussing conditions that arise from spinal cord injuries, neurological disorders, or diseases that affect nerve transmission. This distinguishes it from other terms like paraplegia, which refers specifically to paralysis of the lower limbs, or monoplegia, which denotes paralysis affecting only one limb. Aparesis, while relating to weakness (instead of complete paralysis), does not specifically state the range or extent of limb involvement. Thus, quadriplegia is the precise term for this complete loss of muscular function across all four limbs.