Acute confusional state: a reversible phenomenon

ABSTRACT

One hundred and twenty-five patients suffering from an acute physical illness with associated confusion, were among those admitted to hospital over a seven year period from march 1983 to march 1990. The object of this study was to demonstrate the reversibility of their confusion with the treatment of the underlying illness. The age and sex distribution of the patients and the causes leading to confusion were analysed. Additional tests relevant to the illness of individual patients were carried out in addition to routine investigations for every one. They were assessed by the mental status questionnaire also. The presenting features in these patients were due to both confusion and the illness for which they were originally admitted to the hospital. Consequently they received the management of confusion as well as the physical illness. It was concluded that the confusion was reversible with the successful treatment of the underlying pathology. This was made clear to the patient and all concerned