Abstract
Delirium is a common clinical syndrome characterised by qualitative disorder of consiousness, disturbed cognitive functions or perception, that has sudden onset and fluctuating course. It is a severe state, that may arrise in any major medical condition; it is the most frequent mental complication at somatic departments.
It has been underdiagnosed in clinical practise. It may have and often has severe consequences.
When appropriate prevention is implemented, its incidence and severity can be both decreased substantially. The patient’s life can be saved or at least improved by early initiation of proper treatment.