Which of the following diagnoses is most likely for a 30 year old woman with a history of alcoholism who presents with tremors, anxiety, and hallucinations after abruptly stopping alcohol use?

• A. Alcohol withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens)
• B. Generalized anxiety disorder
• C. Schizophrenia
• D. Major depressive disorder

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the key clinical features presented by the patient: a 30-year-old woman with a history of alcoholism who shows tremors, anxiety, and hallucinations after abruptly stopping alcohol use.
2. Step 2: Understand that these symptoms are characteristic of alcohol withdrawal, which can include physical symptoms like tremors and psychological symptoms such as anxiety and hallucinations.
3. Step 3: Recognize that alcohol withdrawal delirium, also known as delirium tremens, is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that typically occurs within 48-72 hours after cessation and includes symptoms like tremors, hallucinations, and severe anxiety.
4. Step 4: Differentiate these symptoms from other disorders listed: Generalized anxiety disorder involves chronic anxiety without the acute withdrawal context; schizophrenia involves persistent psychosis not linked to substance withdrawal; major depressive disorder primarily involves mood symptoms without tremors or hallucinations related to withdrawal.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the diagnosis most consistent with the clinical presentation and history is alcohol withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens).