Question

A 55 years aged chronic alcoholic male, presented with irrelevant talks, tremor and sweating. He had his last drink 3 days back. What will the probable diagnosis ?

• A. Delirium tremens
• B. Korsakoff psychosis
• C. Post-Acute withdrawal syndrome
• D. Discontinuation syndrome

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To diagnose the condition of the patient described, we must analyze the symptoms and the timeline of events:

• Patient Background: A 55-year-old chronic alcoholic male.
• Symptoms: Irrelevant talks, tremor, and sweating.
• Timeline: Symptoms appeared 3 days after the last drink.

Given this information, the most probable diagnosis is Delirium tremens. Here's why:

• Delirium Tremens: This condition typically manifests in chronic alcoholics who have stopped drinking. Symptoms include confusion, tremors, and autonomic instability (e.g., sweating), usually appearing 48-96 hours after cessation.
• Korsakoff Syndrome: Usually follows Wernicke's encephalopathy and is characterized by memory issues, particularly anterograde amnesia, rather than acute tremors and confusion.
• Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS): Involves emotional and psychological challenges over a prolonged period after withdrawal, not as acute as the symptoms described.
• Discontinuation Syndrome: Refers to withdrawal from medications such as antidepressants, not relevant to alcohol cessation.

Based on the analysis, the patient's symptoms align closely with Delirium tremens.