persistent vegetative state symptoms ICD9CM_2005:780.03 UMLS_CUI:C0242670 SYMP:0000481 UMLS_ICD9CM_2005_AUI:A0446160 An alteration of consciousness that is characterized by an individual with severe brain damage being in a state of partial arousal rather than true awareness. After four weeks in a vegetative state, the patient is classified as being in a persistent vegetative state. After three months in the US and six months in the UK, the diagnosis is classified as a permanent vegetative state after a non-traumatic brain injury, or, one year after a traumatic injury. alteration of consciousness