Studies on circadian rhythm disturbances and melatonin in delirium

The circadian sleep/wake rhythm disturbances that are seen in delirium and the role of melatonin supplementation provide a new angle in delirium research. More research is needed to determine the role of melatonin in the pathophysiological mechanisms of delirium and to determine whether the restoration of the circadian rhythm with melatonin supplementation may be a new, safe and effective method of intervention. The aim of the research in this thesis is to explore the role of melatonin as a prophylactic treatment for delirium in influencing incidence and /or severity of delirium, to determine the role of melatonin in the pathophysiology of delirium, and to explore the usefulness of the sleep-wake rhythm disturbances as a starting point in the diagnosis and subtyping of delirium.