Which condition is a temporary loss of memory often accompanied by hallucinations, terror, grandiosity, and irrational behavior?

• A. Dementia
• B. Delirium
• C. Amnesia
• D. Confabulation

Answer: (B)

Delirium is an acute, fluctuating disturbance of attention and cognition that often includes memory problems and perceptual disturbances. The described pattern—temporary memory loss accompanied by hallucinations, terror or fear, grandiose beliefs, and irrational behavior—fits delirium because it typically appears suddenly, can wax and wane, and frequently involves delusions or hallucinations along with motor agitation or distress. Importantly, delirium is usually reversible once the underlying medical issue, medication effect, or toxin is addressed.

This differs from dementia, which is a chronic, progressive decline in cognitive function, especially memory, developing over months to years rather than appearing abruptly. Amnesia centers on memory loss itself, but not the broader, fluctuating disruption of consciousness and perception seen in delirium. Confabulation involves fabricating memories to fill gaps, often in specific amnestic syndromes, and it does not typically present with the acute perceptual disturbances that characterize delirium.