Delirium Upon Presentation to the Pediatric Emergency Department: A Case Series

Pediatr Emerg Care. 2018 Aug;34(8):e147-e149. doi: 10.1097/PEC.0000000000001175.

Abstract

The following cases describe children who presented to the emergency department (ED) with a constellation of symptoms consistent with delirium. In each case, there was no identified inciting cause (eg, fever, medications) other than the presence of influenza. All children had variable workups, with 2 children undergoing extensive neurologic evaluation and testing. Clinical recognition of delirium in the pediatric acute care setting can be challenging, but heightened awareness by ED and primary care physicians may lead to earlier diagnosis, prevent unwarranted investigations, and decrease hospitalization. Children with influenza may be at increased risk of developing delirium. A prospective study to assess the prevalence of delirium in pediatric patients presenting to the ED with influenza is warranted.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child, Preschool
  • Delirium / etiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Influenza, Human / complications
  • Influenza, Human / diagnosis*
  • Influenza, Human / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents