What is true about delirium?

What is true about delirium?

• A. Delirium is a permanent condition.
• B. Delirium is the second stage of Alzheimer's disease.
• C. Delirium can be caused by an infection.
• D. Delirium is the medical term for depression.

Answer: (C)

Delirium is an acute, sudden change in mental status marked by reduced attention, confusion, and fluctuations in consciousness. It is typically reversible when the underlying cause is identified and treated. Infections are a common trigger, especially in older adults, because fever, toxins, and metabolic disturbances from an infection can disrupt brain function and lead to delirium. This distinguishes delirium from a chronic decline like Alzheimer’s disease and from mood disorders such as depression. So the idea that delirium can be caused by an infection is true and clinically important for prompt assessment and treatment.

Delirium is an acute, sudden change in mental status marked by reduced attention, confusion, and fluctuations in consciousness. It is typically reversible when the underlying cause is identified and treated. Infections are a common trigger, especially in older adults, because fever, toxins, and metabolic disturbances from an infection can disrupt brain function and lead to delirium. This distinguishes delirium from a chronic decline like Alzheimer’s disease and from mood disorders such as depression. So the idea that delirium can be caused by an infection is true and clinically important for prompt assessment and treatment.