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Delirium and Agitation

Delirium is characterized by an altered conscious state with impaired cognition. Intoxication with a variety of agents may present with agitation and delirium.  The alteration in CNS function is usually a transient direct toxic effect that resolves along with other features of intoxication.  Secondary complications or concomitant medical emergencies may contribute to altered CNS function.

References

  • Carter LC, Dawson AH. Acute delirium, Chapter 15,  Dart RC, ed. Medical Toxicology 3rd edn (text).  Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2004.

Toxicology Handbook

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About Mike Cadogan

Emergency physician with a passion for medical informatics and medical education. Co-founder of HealthEngine, iMeducate, and the GMEP. He writes more eclectically on the web as @sandnsurf | + Mike Cadogan | Contact