Delirium

Delirium is an acute neurocognitive disorder characterized by sudden onset of fluctuating disturbances in attention, awareness, and cognition. Etiologies are multifactorial, including infections, metabolic imbalances, drug intoxication or withdrawal, and systemic illnesses. Clinically, patients present with disorientation, impaired memory, fluctuating consciousness, perceptual disturbances, and sleep–wake cycle disruptions. Diagnosis requires careful clinical assessment, exclusion of primary psychiatric disorders, and identification of underlying precipitants. Management emphasizes prompt treatment of the underlying cause, supportive care, environmental modifications, and, when necessary, pharmacologic intervention with antipsychotics for severe agitation. Prognosis depends on rapid identification and treatment; delayed management can lead to prolonged cognitive impairment or increased mortality.