Predictive value of the Thompson score for short-term adverse outcomes in neonatal encephalopathy.

The Thompson score on days 1-4 of age was useful in predicting death and respiratory or feeding impairments. The 72-90 h Thompson score showed the highest predictive capability. Owing to the rarity of withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment in Japan, 43% of infants with persistent severe encephalopathy with a Thompson score of ≥15 at 72-90 h of age could regain spontaneous breathing, be extubated, and survive without tracheostomy. Meanwhile, approximately 50% of infants who survived without tracheostomy required gavage feeding. Our results could provide useful information for clinical decision making regarding infants with persistent severe encephalopathy.