First with respect to the prognosis. All cases of head-injury may be grouped into four classes, according to the changes of temperature present.
Group 1.
The temperature, at first subnormal, undergoes a rapid and progressive rise. Prognosis most unfavourable.
Group 2.
The temperature, at first subnormal, rises gradually to 101° or 102° and there ‘marks time’. This hesitancy marks the crisis of the case, further elevation indicating a fatal result, whilst a fall offers every hope of recovery.
Group 3.
The temperature, at first subnormal, rises to normal and remains at that level. Prognosis very favourable.
Group 4.
The temperature, at first subnormal, remains subnormal. The condition of shock persists, and the prognosis is most unfavourable.
Practically all cases of head-injury fall readily into one or other of these four groups, and the temperature chart presents so clear a picture that it must be regarded as of the greatest possible value in estimating the prognosis in any given case. In other words, the temperature chart affords an almost infallible guide both to prognosis and treatment.