Read story C33: The calcium result (image and text)
High blood calcium and delirium: a less familiar possible cause
Marisol has become thirsty, constipated and increasingly unwell before an acute change in her thinking. Blood tests show a markedly raised calcium level. Her team treats the problem and investigates its cause. This story illustrates why the search for delirium causes is broader than infection, without suggesting that these symptoms alone identify a diagnosis.
Story text
Panel 1. Thirst, constipation and increasing tiredness.
Panel 2.
- Luis: This confusion is new. We need help now.
Panel 3. The team checks for several possible causes.
Panel 4.
- Doctor: She has delirium. Her calcium is very high, which can affect brain function.
Panel 5. Treatment begins. The team investigates why her calcium is high.
Panel 6.
- Marisol: I’m following you better today.
Bottom band. Delirium has many possible causes—not only infection. Tests are guided by the clinical assessment.