Disorders of consciousness terminology: history, evolution and future directions. (6th December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zasler, Nathan D.; Aloisi, Marta; Contrada, Marianna; Formisano, Rita
• Is Part Of: Brain injury. Volume 33:Number 13/14(2019)
• Page Start: 1684
• Page End: 1689
• Publication Date: 2019-12-06
• Subjects: Disorders of consciousness -- coma -- vegetative state -- minimally conscious state -- unresponsive wakefulness syndrome -- locked-in syndrome -- taxonomy -- nomenclature; Brain damage -- Periodicals; Brain -- Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Brain Injuries -- Periodicals; 617.481
• DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2019.1656821
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-9052

Abstract

ABSTRACT: There has been a significant evolution of nomenclature with regards to classification of persons with disorders of consciousness (DoC) over the last 100 years. This paper provides a review of the evolution of this terminology with discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of historical and current terms. Recommendations for how this evolution should continue moving forward in the best interest of patients, their families, society, clinical care, and research will also be addressed. The taxonomy we choose, hopefully by international consensus, has multifaceted implications that go well beyond just a debate on nomenclature.