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Unconsciousness, Coma, and Death by Neurological Criteria

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Acute Pediatric Neurology

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Abstract

Acute clinical situations involving unconsciousness, coma, and death by neurological criteria evoke strong concerns in pediatric practice and signal the need for a structured diagnostic and therapeutic approach. We the authors have in this chapter attempted to review and define relevant terminology including giving references to basic sources of information. In the first part, etiological factors and diagnostic as well as initial therapeutic strategies are pointed out to be of use when a pediatric patient with unconsciousness or coma is encountered. Prognostic aspects and rehabilitation are touched upon but not to any detail, as the chapter is more focused on the initial stages (first days) of illness. The advantage of a team-based and multi-professional way to work clinically is pointed out. In the second part, the pathophysiological and legal basis for a correct procedure for defining death by neurological criteria has been presented in detail. Necessary and supportive diagnostic steps including practical requirements are dealt with. Aspects of supporting a family in a time of crisis are also reviewed.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Neuropediatric Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden

    Tommy Stödberg MD

  2. Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Karolinska Institutet at Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden

    Claes G. Frostell MD, PhD

  3. Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Astrid Lingren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden

    Björn A. Larsson MD, PhD

Authors
  1. Tommy Stödberg MD
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  2. Claes G. Frostell MD, PhD
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  3. Björn A. Larsson MD, PhD
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Claes G. Frostell MD, PhD .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatric Neurology, Astrid Lindgrens Barnsjukhus, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden

    Thomas Sejersen

  2. Department of Pediatric Neurology, Driscoll Children's Hospital, Corpus Christi, Texas, USA

    Ching H. Wang

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© 2014 Springer-Verlag London

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Stödberg, T., Frostell, C.G., Larsson, B.A. (2014). Unconsciousness, Coma, and Death by Neurological Criteria. In: Sejersen, T., Wang, C. (eds) Acute Pediatric Neurology. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-85729-491-3_1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-85729-491-3_1

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-0-85729-490-6

  • Online ISBN: 978-0-85729-491-3

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