A Clinical Analysis of the Delirium Tremens

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We performed this study to identify the clinical characteristics of delirium tremens in Korea. METHODS: We reviewed the charts of patients suffering from delirium tremens who visited the Emergency Department of Keimyung University Hospital during the period of Jan. 2001 through Jun. 2002. RESULTS: All patients were mail, and the number was 28. The age distribution was 40~49, and the most common duration of drinking (15 cases) was between 11 and 20 years. The abstinence period before development of Delirium Tremens was, in most cases, less than 4 days, and the average period of symptoms of Delirium Tremens was less than 6 days. Various abnormal laboratory finding were noted: increased bilirubin level in 50%, prolonged pro-thrombin time in 14.3%, increased amylase level in 19.9% and electrolyte imbalance in 25%. CONCLUSION: During the study period, there was no mortalities. The author believes that sufficient vitamins and fluid supplement contributed to the results.