Sensitive and specific fNIRS-based approach for awareness detection in disorders of consciousness: proof of principle in healthy adults.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Disorders of consciousness (DoCs) are characterized by varying levels of arousal and awareness. Due to severe motor impairments often accompanying these conditions, differentiating between minimally conscious state (MCS) and unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) remains challenging. Accurate diagnosis, however, is critical for optimal treatment and prognosis. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), due to its portability and noninvasiveness, holds promise for brain-based diagnostics, although current methods lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity.

Methods

We introduce a highly sensitive, and specific fNIRS-based diagnostic approach tailored to the individual cognitive state of DoC patients. Nine healthy participants received auditory cues instructi

SUBMITTER: Bastian L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12521986 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature