The conundrum of prolonged delirium.

Withdrawal delirium in alcohol dependence usually lasts 48 to 72 hours. However, certain factors can prolong delirium. We report a 39-year-old man with long-standing alcohol use who presented with delirium, which failed to resolve with treatment. On evaluation, he was found to have AIDS and limbic encephalitis due to herpes simplex virus.

Suicide and depression.

Suicide is considered to be a symptom or sequel of depression. Depressive patients (15-20%) die after committing suicide. Aetiology of suicide comprises social factors, psychological factors and biological factors. Suicide, ideational or operational must receive immediate therapeutic attention. Pharmacotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy constitute the management of suicide--Preventive strategies include primary, secondary or tertiary preventions.