What is a structural cause of confusion in a patient?

A structural cause of confusion in a patient refers to an issue that arises from a physical abnormality or damage within the brain or central nervous system. In this case, a brain infection can lead to inflammation, disruption of normal brain function, and subsequent symptoms such as confusion.

When the brain is infected, as in cases of meningitis or encephalitis, it can alter the normal cognitive processes due to swelling or damage to brain tissue. This direct impact on brain structure is what differentiates it from other causes of confusion that may be metabolic or functional in nature, like poisoning, hypoglycemia, or severe anoxia, which affect brain function without necessarily causing structural damage. Thus, a brain infection clearly exemplifies a structural cause of confusion, making it the best choice in this context.