Comparison of the clinical features of DLB and delirium
| DLB | Delirium | Similarity |
|---|---|---|
| Gradual, progressive onset | Acute onset | No |
| Global cognitive impairment (particularly attention, working memory, visuospatial, some executive functions) | Cognitive impairment (particularly attention, orientation, memory, visuospatial, vigilance) | Yes |
| Fluctuating cognition | Fluctuating cognition | Yes |
| Recurrent visual hallucinations | Visual hallucinations | Yes |
| Spontaneous features of parkinsonism | Psychomotor disturbances | Some |
| Repeated falls | Risk of falls | Some |
| Syncope | Not reported | No |
| Transient loss of consciousness | Fluctuating consciousness | Yes |
| Neuroleptic sensitivity | Some symptoms responsive to neuroleptics for example, agitation, psychosis | No |
| Delusions | Delusions | Yes |
| Hallucinations in other modalities | Hallucinations in other modalities | Yes |
| REM sleep behaviour disorder | Disturbances in the sleep-wake cycle | Some |
| Emotional disturbances | Emotional disturbances | Yes |
DLB, dementia with Lewy bodies; REM, rapid eye movement.