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Health Dictionary

Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.

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Delirium tremens laboratory findings

Introduction

Overview

Overview

Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of delirium tremens include hypoglycemia, hypomagnesemia, hypophosphatemia, and severe dehydration.

Laboratory Findings

Laboratory Findings

Electrolyte and Biomarker Studies

Complete blood count, differential count
Drug screening
Blood lactate levels
Osmolal gap
Serum levels of following electrolytes^[1]
- Bicarbonate – decrease
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) – may increase
- Chloride – may remain unchanged
- Creatine phosphokinase – Some patients develop rhabdomyolysis
- Creatinine – may increase
- Ketones
- Lipase –
- Liver function tests – abnormal
- Magnesium – decrease
- Potassium – decreased
- Sodium – decreased
CSF examination – ruling out infections of the brain

References

References

↑ Blay SL, Ferraz MP, Calil HM, Novo NF (1981). “[Plasma electrolyte changes in chronic alcoholic patients with and without delirium tremens]”. Acta Psiquiatr Psicol Am Lat (in Portuguese). 27 (4–5): 311–4. PMID 7348088.

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Vishnu Vardhan Serla M.B.B.S. [2] Zehra Malik, M.B.B.S [3]