Early outcome prediction in severe head injury: comparison between children and adults.

The prognostic value in 49 children and 56 adults of the following parameters recorded on admission was analyzed: oculocephalic and light reflexes, posturing, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), the need for ventilatory support, and the presence of associated injuries. All patients had been in coma for at least 6 h. The presence of intracranial hematoma and the duration of coma were recorded and the relative risk of poor outcome calculated. There was poor outcome in 51% of the children and 61% of the adults. Oculocephalic and light reflexes, posturing, GCS, need for ventilatory support, and duration of coma were significantly related to the outcome in children. Only oculocephalic and light reflexes, and posturing were significantly related to the outcome in adults. Some parameters appeared to have different prognostic value in children and in adults: the simultaneous evaluation of oculocephalic reflex and need for ventilation was the best prognostic guide in children, the light reflex was the best prognostic indicator in adults.