Comparison of the prognostic validity of three simplified consciousness assessment scales with the Glasgow Coma Scale.

Background: Various tools simpler than the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) have been proposed for the assessment of consciousness. In this study, the validity of three coma scales [Simplified Motor Scale, Modified GCS Motor Response, and AVPU (alert, verbal, painful, unresponsive)] is evaluated for the recognition of coma and the prediction of short- and long-term mortality and poor outcome. The predictive validity of these scales is also compared to the GCS.

A systematic review on the outcome of intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the neurological outcome, trends and sequelae following surgical or conservative treatment of intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations (ISCCMs).

Methods: A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary outcome measure was the change in the neurological status after surgery or conservative management.

Clinimetric study and review of the Reaction Level Scale.

Objectives: Although the Reaction Level Scale (RLS) is still used for the assessment of the level of consciousness in distinct centers, its clinical characteristics and significance have been incompletely researched. In the current study, the clinimetric properties, the prognostic value, and the impact of the raters' background on the application of the RLS, in comparison with the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), are investigated.

Materials And Methods: A systematic review on the available clinical evidence for the RLS was first carried out.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Greek Version of the "Full Outline of Unresponsiveness Score": A Prospective Observational Clinimetric Study in Neurosurgical Patients.

Background: The Full Outline of Unresponsiveness (FOUR) score is a clinical instrument for the assessment of consciousness which is gradually gaining ground in clinical practice, as it incorporates more complete neurological information than the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). The main objectives of the current study were the following: (1) translate and cross-culturally adapt the FOUR score into Greek; (2) evaluate its clinimetric properties, including interrater reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity; and (3) evaluate the reliability of assessments among health care professionals with different levels of experience and training.

Methods: The FOUR score was initially translated into Greek.

The current significance of the FOUR score: A systematic review and critical analysis of the literature.

Background: The Full Outline of Un-Responsiveness Score (FOURs) is a scale for clinical assessment of consciousness that was introduced to overcome disadvantages of the widely accepted Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).

Objective: To carry out a systematic review and critical analysis of the available literature on the clinical application of FOURs and perform a comparison to GCS, in terms of reliability and predictive value.

Methods: Initial search retrieved a total of 147 papers.

Congenital Glioblastoma Multiforme: An Unusual and Challenging Tumor.

Congenital glioblastoma multiforme is a rare tumor of the central nervous system with unique features. The existing evidence on its pathogenesis, genetic and molecular profile, special characteristics, treatment, and prognosis is reviewed. An increased number of antenatal diagnoses and prolonged survival for those individuals who can tolerate combined surgical resection and chemotherapy has been noted.

Nosocomial bloodstream infections in neurosurgery: a 10-year analysis in a center with high antimicrobial drug-resistance prevalence.

Background: Data on nosocomial bloodstream infections (NBSI) in neurosurgery is limited. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiology, microbiology, outcome, and risk factors for death in neurosurgical patients with NBSI in a multidrug resistant setting.

Methods: Neurosurgical patients with a confirmed NBSI within the period 2003-2012 were retrospectively analyzed.

Osteoporotic spinal burst fracture in a young adult as first presentation of systemic mastocytosis.

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are uncommon in young adults and usually indicate an underlying disease. Systemic mastocytosis is a myeloproliferative neoplasm, which can be associated with osteoporosis. A previously healthy 30-year-old man presented with an L4 burst fracture after lifting a heavy object.