Update on Disorders of Consciousness

Purpose of Review The purpose of this review is to update the reader on recent trends in disorders of consciousness (DOC) including pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Recent Findings Non-behavioral assessments such as electroencephalography, functional magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography have resulted in improved understanding of the brain networks underlying consciousness. These non-behavioral assessments also provide valuable information on diagnosis and prognosis. Behavioral assessments of disorders of consciousness should be performed using a standardized assessment, performed serially. In addition to pharmacologic treatments, stimulation and energy modalities are being studied in DOC. Recent long-term studies of DOC have provided a more favorable long-term prognosis for functional recovery. Summary Non-behavioral assessments of disorders of consciousness, combined with behavioral assessments, will provide improved diagnostic and prognostic information, as promising energy and stimulation modalities are trialed. Patients with disorders of consciousness should be treated in centers with expertise in providing care to this unique patient population.