Delirium tremens: its aetiology, natural history and treatment

Delirium tremens represents the most severe end of the spectrum of alcohol withdrawal syndromes and has a substantial mortality if not adequately treated. Concomitant sepsis, fluid and electrolyte disturbances and recent trauma or surgery are significant risk factors for its development. Genetic factors predisposing to its development have been identified recently and include cholecystokinin gene and mu opioid receptor mutations, Effective treatment is based on early recognition and effective sedation with benzodiazepines, together with attention to concomitant illnesses, Curr Opin Psychiatry 13-629-633. (C) 2000 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.