Is a combination of 2 conditions: Korsakoff’s Syndrome and Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
Korsakoff’s Syndrome
Is a condition that largely affects the brain causing dementia and memory problems
Caused by a deficiency or lack of Vitamin B1 or Thiamine in the brain
This condition may be combined with Wernicke’s encephalopathy - called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
Symptoms
- Inability to create memories [Anterograde amnesia]
- Inability to remember or recall memories [Retrograde amnesia]
- Invented memories
- Lack of care
- Tremors
- Muscle twitching
- Coma
Causes of Vitamin Deficiency
- Severe malnutrition
- Alcoholism
- Eating disorders
- Mercury poisoning
- Severe morning sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum
Treatment
- Often requires hospital care
. IV Thiamine
. IM Thiamine
. Hydration
. Nutrition
Prevention is essential and therefore avoidance of vitamin deficiency
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
Is a condition that largely affects the brain causing confusion and changes to the eye movement
Lesions on several parts of the brain are reported
Often caused by lack of Vitamin B1 or Thiamine in the brain along with carbohydrate digestion
Symptoms:
Main
- Brain damage [Encephalopathy]
- Eye damaage [Ophthalmoplegia]
- Loss of mucle corridination [Ataxia]
Other
- Memory loss
- Dementia
- Confusion
- Gait changers
- Coma
Causes of Vitamin Deficiency
- Severe malnutrition
- Alcoholism
- Eating disorders
- Chronic gastritis
- Following pariatic surgery
- Some cancers
Treatment
- Often requires hospital care
. IV Thiamine
. IM Thiamine
. Hydration
. Nutrition
Often correcting hypoglycemia or low blood sugar should not be done prior to thiamine replacement