Neurology
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The ICH Score is a commonly used clinical grading scale for outcome after acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and has been validated for 30-day mortality, but not long-term functional outcome. The goals of this study were to assess whether the ICH Score accurately stratifies patients with regard to 12-month functional outcome and to further delineate the pace of recovery of patients during the first year post-ICH. ⋯ The ICH Score is a valid clinical grading scale for long-term functional outcome after acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Many ICH patients improve after hospital discharge and this improvement may continue even after 6 months post-ICH.
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Intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) is considered a good diagnostic tool for small fiber neuropathy (SFN). ⋯ This study provides clinically applicable distal intraepidermal nerve fiber density normative values, showing age- and sex-related differences.
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Guidelines for defining the minimally conscious state (MCS) specify behaviors that characterize emergence, including "reliable and consistent" functional communication (accurate yes/no responding). Guidelines were developed by consensus because of lack of empirical data. ⋯ Accuracy for simple orientation yes/no questions remains challenging for responsive patients in early recovery from traumatic brain injury. Although name recognition questions are relatively easier than other types of yes/no questions, including situational orientation questions, confused patients still may answer these incorrectly. Results suggest the operational threshold for yes/no response accuracy as a diagnostic criterion for emergence from the minimally conscious state should be revisited, with particular consideration of the type of yes/no questions and the requisite accuracy threshold for responses.