Acute Delirium From Urinary Retention in Elderly Women With Alzheimer’s Disease: A Case of Female Cystocerebral Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction

Delirium is a frequent and complex condition among elderly patients in emergency departments, often requiring rapid assessment and intervention. Emergency nurses are integral to identifying reversible causes of delirium, such as urinary retention.

Case Presentation

Cystocerebral syndrome, a rare but significant condition predominantly observed in males, is characterized by delirium triggered by acute urinary retention and reversible with bladder decompression. This report details the first documented female case: an 80-year-old patient with Alzheimer’s disease presenting with hypoactive delirium, marked by reduced speech and mobility. Through comprehensive nursing assessment, bladder distention was identified as the underlying cause. After catheterization, the patient’s symptoms resolved within 10 minutes, confirming the diagnosis of cystocerebral syndrome.

Conclusion

This case underscores the critical role of emergency nursing in recognizing atypical presentations of delirium in elderly female patients and ensuring timely, targeted interventions to optimize outcomes.