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), hallucinations may be florid.
EEG shows pronounced diffuse slowing.