Consideration of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis as a Cause of Delirium in Psychiatry Clinics

ABSTRACT

A venous infarct due to cerebral venous thrombosis might present only with psychiatric symptoms, such as delirium, psychosis, depression, anxiety, irritability, lack of interest, personality change, apathy/abulia or cognitive deterioration. This condition might be difficult to diagnose on clinical grounds alone. Radiological studies are crucial for establishing a definitive diagnosis. Non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging combined with magnetic resonance venography with and without contrast is the most sensitive diagnostic technique for demonstrating venous infarct and dural sinus thrombosis. This study presents three patients with respective diagnoses of recurrent depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Subsequently, each patient developed new-onset agitation, psychosis symptoms, and delirium.

Keywords:

• cerebral venous thrombosis
• psychiatric symptoms
• delirium
• neuroimaging