Epidemiology, Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Delirium: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Delirium is an acute disorder of arousal and attention that is commonly encountered, incompletely understood, and associated with adverse outcomes including increased morbidity and mortality, reduced health-related quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. In this narrative review, authors examine the epidemiology, potential pathophysiological mechanisms, assessment, prevention, and treatment of this cognitive disorder.