Delirium differential diagnosis [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Delirium differential diagnosis ======

===== Dementia =====

[[Delirium]] vs. [[dementia]] (critical distinction). Delirium AKA [[acute confusional state]]. Distinct from [[dementia]]; however, patients with dementia are at increased risk of developing delirium.

A primary disorder of attention that subsequently affects all other aspects of cognition.

Often represents life-threatening illness, e.g.[[ hypoxia]], [[sepsis]], [[uremic encephalopathy]], [[electrolyte]] abnormality, drug intoxication, MI. 50% of patients die within 2 yrs of this diagnosis.

Unlike dementia, delirium has an acute onset, motor signs ([[tremor]], [[myoclonus]], [[asterixis]]), slurred speech, altered [[consciousness]] (hyperalert/agitated or lethargic, or fluctuations), [[hallucination]]s may be florid. 
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[[EEG]] shows pronounced diffuse slowing.

===== Status epilepticus =====

[[Status epilepticus]].

===== Alcohol withdrawal seizures =====

see [[Alcohol withdrawal seizures]].