altered mental status (AMS)

Introduction

An alteration in mental status.

Etiology

• delirium
• dementia
• psychosis
• disorders of arousal

More general terms

• altered state of consciousness

More specific terms

• delirium (acute confusional state)
• dementia; Alzheimer's disease & related dementias (ADRD)
• psychosis

Additional terms

• arousal
• cognitive impairment
• confusion