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Incidence of delirium in children with cancer
Daniel Combs1, Sydney A Rice, Lisa M Kopp
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.
Insights
Delirium occurs in 10% of pediatric cancer admissions, yet it is likely under-recognized. Early diagnosis and treatment of delirium in children with cancer may improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Delirium is a serious condition affecting hospitalized patients.
- Data on delirium incidence in pediatric cancer patients are scarce.
- Under-recognition of delirium may lead to adverse outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of delirium in pediatric oncology admissions.
- To highlight the potential under-recognition of delirium in this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of pediatric oncology admissions.
- Data collected over a 1-year period.
- Identification of patients diagnosed with delirium.
Main Results:
- Seven cases of delirium were identified.
- The incidence of delirium was 10% among pediatric oncology admissions.
- Delirium was associated with increased morbidity and mortality.
Conclusions:
- Delirium is a significant concern in children with cancer.
- Improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for delirium are needed.
- Addressing delirium may enhance outcomes for pediatric cancer patients.
Abstract:
There are limited data on the incidence of delirium in children with cancer. We performed a retrospective chart review of all pediatric oncology admissions over a 1 year period to determine the incidence of delirium in this population. We identified seven patients with delirium (10% incidence). Delirium is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and is likely under-recognized in this population. Improved diagnosis and treatment of delirium may improve outcomes in children with cancer.
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