delirium tremens (DTs), an acute and sometimes fatal psychotic reaction caused by abrupt cessation of excessive intake of alcoholic beverages. Initial symptoms include loss of appetite, insomnia, and general restlessness, which are followed by agitation; excitement; disorientation; mental confusion; vivid and often frightening hallucinations; acute fear and anxiety; illusions and delusions; coarse tremors of the hands, feet, legs, and tongue; fever; increased heart rate; extreme perspiration; GI distress; and precordial pain. The episode, which usually constitutes a medical emergency, typically lasts from 3 to 6 days and is generally followed by a deep sleep. See also alcohol withdrawal syndrome, Korsakoff’s psychosis.
