Read story C30: The scan was reassuring (image and text)
Can someone have delirium with a normal brain scan?
Peter’s brain scan does not show a new structural problem, but he is still clearly unwell and confused. Anna asks how both things can be true. The doctor explains that delirium is identified from the clinical picture, not by a visible mark on every scan. Other investigations and care continue according to his needs.
Story text
Panel 1. A scan was arranged because of Peter’s symptoms.
Panel 2.
- Doctor: The scan has not shown a new structural problem.
Panel 3.
- Anna: Then why is he still so confused?
Panel 4.
- Doctor: A reassuring scan does not rule out delirium. We diagnose that from the whole clinical picture.
Panel 5. The search for causes continues.
Panel 6.
- Anna: What are the next steps?
Bottom band. A normal scan does not rule out delirium or remove the need for clinical care.