Delirious Mania: Recognition and Successful Treatment with Donepezil

Aims: Presentation of a case of severe delirious mania with resolution of delirium after treatment with donepezil.

Presentation of Case: KA was a 44 y/o Australian female with a history of bipolar affective disorder with psychotic manic episodes. Two weeks prior to her psychiatric admission she was admitted to a medical ward after an overdose (OD) of acetaminophen. On review, it appeared that this OD may have been the beginning of an unrecognized delirious mania. The patient was sent home and returned 2 weeks later for a prolonged psychiatric admission with multiple medical comorbidities. Psychiatric management and medical care were provided in intensive settings and despite adequate treatment and improvement in mood symptoms, her delirium did not resolve. Immediately upon institution of donepezil, her delirium resolved. After a period of stability, donepezil was stopped. Her delirium returned and donepezil was reinstituted with resolution of normal cognitive function.

Discussion: The DSM 5 criteria for Delirium and some inherent difficulties using these criteria are discussed. A review of the literature of delirious mania is presented which shows unresolved controversies but an evolving recognition of this disorder. A Cochrane Review shows no benefit in the use of acetylcholinesterases in the treatment of delirium. However, the multiple etiologies and pathological processes involved in delirium may require unique and individual recognition and management.

Conclusion: This case suggests that the use of donepezil is strongly recommended in the treatment of delirious mania. Further study is required to clarify in this challenging disorder.