What finding indicates a positive Romberg test during a neurological assessment?

A positive Romberg test is indicated by the inability to stand with feet together while the eyes are closed. This test assesses a person's proprioceptive and vestibular function. When individuals close their eyes, they rely more heavily on their proprioceptive and vestibular systems for balance, as they cannot use visual cues. If a person cannot maintain their balance and falls or sways when in this position, it suggests a dysfunction in the sensory pathways responsible for proprioception or vestibular function. This finding is particularly relevant for conditions affecting the dorsal columns of the spinal cord, such as vitamin B12 deficiency or certain neurological disorders.

The other options do not pertain to the specifics of the Romberg test. Inability to speak clearly relates to language and speech function rather than balance, loss of fine motor skills indicates issues with movement precision, and involuntary tremors are associated with motor control disorders. None of these findings directly evaluate balance as the Romberg test does.