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Review: delirium in the elderly: a comprehensive review
Vikrant Mittal1, Sunanda Muralee, Deena Williamson
1BJC Healthcare System, Farmington, MO, USA.
American Journal of Alzheimer'S Disease and Other Dementias
|February 3, 2011
Summary
Delirium, a common elderly neuropsychiatric syndrome, is often missed and can lead to severe outcomes. Early detection and management of delirium are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Delirium is a frequent neuropsychiatric syndrome in the elderly.
- It presents with concurrent cognitive and behavioral impairments.
- Often multifactorial, delirium stems from medical illnesses or medication effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the etiology, neurobiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of delirium in the elderly.
- To highlight the challenges in diagnosing delirium in older patients.
- To emphasize the severe consequences of untreated delirium.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes available evidence on delirium in the elderly.
- It discusses diagnostic criteria and challenges.
- It covers etiological factors, neurobiological underpinnings, and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Delirium is frequently misdiagnosed as depression or dementia.
- High rates of morbidity and mortality are associated with untreated delirium.
- Early detection and risk factor reduction can decrease adverse outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Delirium is a potentially lethal condition in the elderly requiring prompt recognition.
- Effective management strategies are essential for improving patient outcomes.
- Further research and clinical attention are needed for better delirium care.
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