Prolonged confusional state as first manifestation of COVID-19

Ann Clin Transl Neurol. 2020 Aug;7(8):1450-1452. doi: 10.1002/acn3.51067. Epub 2020 Jul 6.

Abstract

A 77-year-old gentleman, normally fit and well, was admitted with acute confusion. On admission, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was 14/15, vital signs were within the normal limits and bilateral crepitation at the lung base. Head CT scan was normal. CXR showed some air space opacification. Investigations revealed hyponatraemia, raised CRP, and positive for COVID-19. Treated with antibiotics and intravenous saline, sodium returned to normal. Delirium remained unchanged 4 weeks post-incidence. Neurological manifestations were documented in patients with COVID-19; however no report has shown delirium as a primary manifestation. This case illustrates acute confusion may be the only presenting symptom of COVID-19 without overt lung disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • COVID-19 / complications*
  • Delirium / virology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • SARS-CoV-2