Delirium

Alternative names:

acute brain syndrome; acute confusional state

Definition:

A condition of severe confusion and rapid changes in brain function, usually the result of treatable physical or mental illness.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Acute confusional states are usually the result of a physical or mental illness and are usually temporary and reversible.

Delirium involves a rapid alternation between mental states (for example, from lethargy to agitation and back to lethargy), with attention disruption, disorganized thinking, disorientation, changes in sensation and perception, and other symptoms.

Disorders that cause delirium are numerous and varied. They may include conditions that deprive the brain of oxygen or other substances. Delirium may be caused by diseases of body systems other than the brain, by poisons, by fluid/electrolyte or acid/base disturbances, and by other serious, acute conditions.