Multi-centric longitudinal study on electrophysiological diagnostic and prognostic markers in prolonged disorders of consciousness

Diagnostic accuracy and reliable assessment of prognosis are challenging in patients in vegetative state (VS) and in minimally conscious state (MCS). This longitudinal multi-centric study aims to identify neurophysiological patterns with diagnostic and prognostic value. 59 patients in VS and 63 in MCS underwent clinical assessment by Coma Recovery Scale-Revised 3 and neurophysiological evaluations of EEG background activity and reactivity, somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) and event related potential (ERP) at ⩽3 months after brain-injury. Clinical outcome was evaluated at 6 months post-injury. EEG background activity and reactivity significantly differed between VS and MCS patients (p