[Delirium with dementia].

In the past the concept of delirium was associated with different diseases. Even today numerous synonyms of delirium exist. The author gives an overview of the definition of delirium in the past and today. The paper presents epidemiological data, diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses of delirium for patients suffering from dementia. Pathological mechanisms, risk factors and triggers as well as different forms of delirium for patients suffering from dementia are discussed. Diagnostics and differential diagnostics are discussed and possible medicamentous and non-medicamentous therapy procedures as well as the prevention of delirium are shown. The author points out the necessity of education and training of medical staff to prevent or to diagnose early delirium for patients suffering from dementia and to start therapy as early as possible.