Despite the prevalence and impact of delirium, knowledge of its pathophysiology is largely hypothetical. Delirium is a common and complex clinical cause of cognitive change in people with advanced cancer. The prevalence of delirium in people with advanced cancer on admission to hospital is between 28%-48% and up to 88% in the hours to days before death.
Understanding the pathophysiology of delirium is crucial to the development of more effective ways to prevent and treat the condition. Currently, many studies on the pathophysiology of delirium are poorly conducted and/or reported.
PhD student Ingrid Amgarth-Duff’s study will obtain expert opinions on the critical elements in delirium biomarker studies in order to gain international consensus. Her research focuses on the best practice methods and reporting of studies of biological and medical implications of delirium.
In recognition of Ingrid’s outstanding research, she has been awarded the 2018 ADA research award from the Australasian Delirium Association (ADA). The award includes a prize of $5000 towards the progression and creation of Ingrid’s research.
This study will provide a better understanding of the pathophysiology of delirium. Greater knowledge of the clinical implications of delirium will inform more targeted interventions to prevent and treat delirium, thereby improving patient care and outcomes including longer-term cognitive and physical function, and better quality of life.