Kahn et al listed criteria for a diagnosis delirium tremens (DT). These can help to identify a patient who may benefit from more aggressive management. The authors are from Wayne State University.
Criteria for a diagnosis of delirium tremens - all of the following:
(1) history of alcohol dependence
(2) delirium not attributable to other cause
(3) psychomotor agitation (anxiety, tremulousness, etc)
(4) autonomic hyperactivity
Autonomic hyperactivity may include:
(1) persistent tachycardia (heart rate >= 100 beats per minute)
(2) persistent hypertension (systolic blood pressure >= 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic >= 90 mm Hg)
(3) hyperthermia >= 100.4°F not explained by other cause
The diagnosis requires exclusion of other explanations for the findings (sepsis, drug intoxication, etc).
