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Fortschr Neurol Psychiatr 2017; 85(03): 163-177
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-103052
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© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Der komplizierte Alkoholentzug: Grand-Mal-Anfälle, Delir und Wernicke-Enzephalopathie

Alcohol withdrawal and its major complications
Klaus Junghanns
,
Tilman Wetterling
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 March 2017 (online)

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Abstract

Delirium tremens is one of the most common complications of alcohol withdrawal. It is potentially lethal and therefore should be detected as early as possible and be monitored and treated intensively. The assessment of risk factors with the Luebeck Alcohol-Withdrawal Risk Scale short form (LARS-11) can help to predict the risk of severe withdrawal adequately. As delirium cannot be differentiated from Wernicke-Encephalopathy with sufficient certainty high parenteral doses of Vitamin B1 and Magnesium orally should be given in case of any severe withdrawal symptoms. According to guidelines delirium tremens should be treated with benzodiazepines besides adequate electrolyte and fluid substitution. Haloperidol is often additionally given to better control hallucinations. Delirium tremens usually subsides within 10 days of treatment.

The article gives an overview of alcohol withdrawal with its different facets, its differential diagnoses, and the treatment options.

Während eines Alkoholentzugs kommt es häufig zum Delir oder zu Grand-Mal-Anfällen. Die LARS11-Skala eignet sich dabei zur Abschätzung der Schwere der Entzugssymptomatik. So können rechtzeitig geeignete Therapiemaßnahmen eingeleitet werden.

Schlüsselworter

Alkoholabhängigkeit - Alkoholentzug - Alkoholentzugsdelir - Wernicke- Enzephalopathie - Alkoholhalluzinose - Korsakow-Syndrom

Key words

alcohol dependence - alcohol withdrawal - delirium tremens - wernicke-encephalopathy - alcohol hallucinosis - Korsakoff-syndrome
 

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