In this article, we will discuss the Definition of Vegetative State, Akinetic Mutism and Coma Vigil. So, let’s get started.
Definition
Vegetative State: This is state of unresponsiveness In which the eyelids are open giving the appearance of wakefulness. There is an absolute absence of response to commands and an inability to communicate. This is also called ‘awake coma’. There may be yawning, grunting and random movements of limbs and head. There are accompanying signs of extensive bilateral cortical damage, i.e. Babinski signs, decerebrate or decorticate limb posturing and absent response to visual stimuli. Respiratory and autonomic functions are preserved. The vegetative state results from global damage to the cerebral cortex most often following cardiac arrest or head injury.
Akinetic Mutism: It refers to the state of partial or full of wakefulness in which patient lies immobile (akinetic) with eyes open and is unable to talk (mute). It results from hydrocephalus, mass in the region of third ventricle, bilateral frontal lobe lesions.
Coma vigil: It indicates a state of impaired consciousness with muttering. It is observed in infectious fever such as typhoid, dengue or pneumonia.