Book excerpt: This text provides a comprehensive, state-of-the-art overview of acute brain dysfunction in the critically ill. The book covers the basic pathophysiology of delirium, epidemiology, risk factors, outcomes associated with delirium, prevention and treatment of delirium, and challenges and techniques for improving delirium awareness. Written by experts in the field, Delirium: Acute Brain Dysfunction in the Critically Ill is a valuable resource for clinicians and practitioners that will help guide patient management and stimulate investigative efforts in this field.