Delirium in acute stroke: a review

Background Delirium is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by disturbances of consciousness, attention, cognition, and perception. It may be the presenting feature of acute stroke, but more often it complicates the clinical course in the early stage of rehabilitation. Summary of review...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International Journal of Stroke 2007-11, Vol.2 (4), p.270-275
Main Authors: Oldenbeuving, A. W., De Kort, P. L. M., Jansen, B. P. W., Roks, G., Kappelle, L. J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
acute confusional state
Acute Disease
delirium
Delirium - diagnosis
Delirium - epidemiology
Delirium - etiology
Delirium - physiopathology
Delirium - therapy
Humans
Prognosis
Risk Factors
Severity of Illness Index
stroke
Stroke - psychology
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Summary:Background Delirium is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by disturbances of consciousness, attention, cognition, and perception. It may be the presenting feature of acute stroke, but more often it complicates the clinical course in the early stage of rehabilitation. Summary of review Risk factors for delirium are older age, pre-existing cognitive decline, metabolic disturbances, infections, and polypharmacy. Recognition of delirium in patients with stroke is important because of its association with a longer stay in the hospital, a poor functional outcome, and an increased risk of developing dementia. The diagnosis may be difficult because of the fluctuating course and the neurological deficits that are caused by the stroke. Nonpharmacological preventive measures, early identification, and additional medical intervention are the key measures in the management of delirium after stroke. Conclusion This review describes incidence, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnostic tools, and management of delirium in patients with a recent stroke.
ISSN:1747-4930
1747-4949
DOI:10.1111/j.1747-4949.2007.00163.x