Untreated delirium tremens has an estimated mortality rate of approximately what percent?

• A. 5%
• B. 20%
• C. 50%
• D. 75%

Answer: (B)

Delirium tremens is a severe, life-threatening alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Without treatment, the body endures extreme autonomic arousal, dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, hyperthermia, and a risk of seizures, arrhythmias, aspiration, and multiorgan failure. This combination historically carries a substantial death rate, commonly cited around one in five patients, which is about 20%. This is why the untamed form is so dangerous and why prompt, aggressive supportive care—benzodiazepines, fluids, electrolyte management, and treatment of complications—greatly lowers mortality. The other percentages are either too low given the severity of untreated DT or unrealistically high for untreated cases in most settings.