Vegetative state, minimally conscious state, akinetic mutism and Parkinsonism as a continuum of recovery from disorders of consciousness: an exploratory and preliminary study.
Year: 2011
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The aim of this study was to review the usefulness of clinical and instrumental evaluation in individuals with disorders of consciousness (DOC). Thirteen subjects with severe acquired brain injury (ABI) and a diagnosis of DOC were evaluated using the Coma Recovery Scale in its revised version (CRS-R) and a new global disability index, the Post-Coma Scale (PCS). These instruments were administered both by a neutral examiner (professional) and by a professional in the presence of a caregiver. All patients were also scored using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). A statistically significant correlation between CRS-R and PCS was demonstrated. However, there also emerged significant differences in responsiveness between professional versus caregiver+professional assessment using the two scales. The emotional stimulation provided by significant others (caregivers) during administration of DOC evaluation scales may improve the assessment of responsiveness.
Source: Europe PMC (PubMed Central)
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1516631955