Coma and brainstem death. (August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Howard, Robin S.
• Is Part Of: Medicine. Volume 44:Number 8(2016)
• Page Start: 495
• Page End: 498
• Publication Date: 2016-08
• Subjects: Brain death -- coma -- neuro-critical care; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Périodiques; Médecine factuelle -- Périodiques; Medicine; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Electronic journals; 610
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mpmed.2016.05.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1357-3039

Abstract

Abstract: The diagnosis and management of the patient in coma demands rigorous clinical assessment that encompasses a meticulous approach to history-taking and systemic and neurological examination. Following immediate resuscitation and acute management, the level of consciousness must be assessed and evidence of meningism, brainstem or lateralizing neurological signs sought. The prognosis depends on the underlying cause and the appropriateness of acute management. The diagnosis of brain death depends on establishing the aetiology of irreversible brain damage, excluding reversible causes and establishing the absence of any brainstem reflexes.