[Acutely Altered Mental Status: When the Patient is Acting Odd].

Abstract

An acutely altered mental status is a common presenting complaint. A wide variety of neurological, systemic or psychiatric conditions can be the cause. Sometimes there is even overlap of various diseases that contribute to the patient's confusion. The brain can be primarily or secondarily involved. A meticulous history and examination provide the first clues as to the origin of the alternation in personality. Most of the time further exams at the hospital are necessary to determine the diagnosis and plan the treatment. Nevertheless, even with just limited preclinical resources perceptive teams are able to gather and analyse enough information to diagnose and treat the patient. The result of this detective work can be quite rewarding, especially if the initial diagnosis is confirmed. Therapeutic measures preclinically focus on maintaining the cerebral equilibrium.