Delirium: diagnosis, neuropathogenesis, and treatment

Delirium affects more than 2 million patients in the United States each year. The onset of delirium often occurs after hospitalization and in many cases is due to medications or procedures performed during the hospitalization. Unfortunately, delirium remains unrecognized in the majority of patients for several reasons. This review addresses the diagnostic criteria for delirium, the neurochemistry that is believed to be causative, risk factors, measures that may be taken to reduce the onset of delirium, and treatment options.