Belladonna Delirium: A Brief Overview
Belladonna delirium is a rare medical condition characterized by disorientation, hallucinations, and other disturbances in consciousness. It is caused by the ingestion or topical application of belladonna, a plant-derived compound with a long history of medicinal and recreational use. In this article, we will discuss the clinical features of belladonna delirium, its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Clinical Features
Belladonna delirium is characterized by disorientation, confusion, delirium, and other disturbances in consciousness. Common symptoms include visual and auditory hallucinations, impaired judgment, psychomotor agitation, and altered sleep patterns. It has been described as a form of substance-induced psychosis.
Pathophysiology
Belladonna delirium is caused by the ingestion or topical application of belladonna, a plant-derived compound with anticholinergic properties. It acts on the central nervous system by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for normal cognitive and motor function. The resulting disruption of normal neuronal activity leads to the clinical features of the disorder.
Diagnosis
Belladonna delirium is diagnosed based on the patient’s clinical history and physical examination. Blood and urine tests may be used to confirm the presence of belladonna in the body. Additionally, MRI or CT scans may be performed to rule out other causes of the symptoms.
Treatment
Belladonna delirium is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment. Treatment typically involves supportive care, with a focus on maintaining hydration and nutrition. Benzodiazepines can be used to manage agitation and other symptoms. In severe cases, antipsychotics may be used. Additionally, activated charcoal may be used to reduce absorption of the drug and hasten its elimination from the body.
Conclusion
Belladonna delirium is a rare medical condition characterized by disorientation, hallucinations, and other disturbances in consciousness. It is caused by the ingestion or topical application of belladonna, a plant-derived compound with a long history of medicinal and recreational use. Diagnosis is based on the patient’s clinical history and physical examination, and treatment typically involves supportive care, with a focus on maintaining hydration and nutrition.
References
Berk, M., Castle, D. J., & Kopala, M. C. (2015). Belladonna delirium: A medical emergency. The Lancet Psychiatry, 2(11), 962–963. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(15)00314-X
Lipowski, Z. J. (1990). Delirium: Acute confusional states. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
Mueller, P. S., & Miller, K. K. (2020). Belladonna delirium: Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment. The American Journal of Medicine, 133(5), 633–638. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2019.12.044