TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Chapter 104. Acute Neurological Dysfunction A1 - Arnold, Susan T. A2 - Rudolph, Colin D. A2 - Rudolph, Abraham M. A2 - Lister, George E. A2 - First, Lewis R. A2 - Gershon, Anne A. PY - 2011 T2 - Rudolph's Pediatrics, 22e AB - Acute alterations in the level of consciousness always indicate a serious medical problem, which must be comprehensively evaluated and closely monitored. They may arise from both primary processes within the central nervous system or may be caused by the secondary effects of other systemic disorders. In either case, if the disruption is severe enough, central control of respiratory or cardiovascular function can rapidly deteriorate, leading to a life-threatening emergency. The differential diagnosis for altered consciousness or coma is broad, and imaging studies and laboratory tests alone may not identify an etiology. A careful history of the events leading up to the change in mental status and a full multisystem examination are essential and will help guide the choice of diagnostic tests. SN - PB - The McGraw-Hill Companies CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/03/29 UR - accesspediatrics.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=6720449 ER -