Dementia and Delirium

Question 1

What is similar about the diagnosis of dementia and delirium?

Answer 1

They are both characterized by the presence of cognitive symptoms in multiple domains

Question 2

What is the core definition of delirium?

Answer 2

Alteration in attention or alertness and level of arousal which affects an individual’s ability to appropriately integrate and respond to external stimuli

Question 3

What features define delirium?

Answer 3

Fast onset; hallmark is acute onset in alteration in attention and level of arousal with a significant effect on circadian rhythm. Occasional hallucinations, agitation, drowsiness. Agitated state common. Hypervigilance is more likely than hypovigilance

Question 4

What are two neurotransmitters involved in delirium and why were they first suspected for it?

Answer 4

Acetylcholine: involvement in attention, arousal, memory, and REM sleep.
Dopamine: Dopamine agonists induce delirium and anti-dopaminergic medications treat delirium