Severe delirium on a background of Alzheimer's dementia – A devastating acute illness; report of a case

Abstract

Delirium is an acute and reversible condition that is common in hospitalised patients. Patients with delirium have extended lengths of stay, double the mortality of matched controls and an increased risk of permanent cognitive decline. We present the case of a patient with severe hypoactive delirium on a background of Alzheimer's dementia with a significant lasting cognitive deficit. This case presents the devastating impact of delirium on the lives of patients and relatives. The need for more awareness of delirium amongst health care professionals, more routine risk assessment and more studies aimed at managing hospitalised patients with delirium is also implicated.

Keywords

• Delirium
• Alzheimer
• Acute