Thiamine deficiency

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Thiamine Deficiency

Thiamine deficiency (pronounced: thy-a-min de-fish-en-see), also known as beriberi or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is a medical condition caused by low levels of thiamine (vitamin B1) in the body.

Etymology

The term "thiamine" comes from the Greek words "thio", meaning sulfur, and "amine", a type of organic compound, reflecting the chemical structure of the vitamin. "Beriberi" is derived from the Sinhalese phrase "beri-beri" meaning "I cannot, I cannot", describing the debilitating effects of the disease. "Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome" is named after the physicians Carl Wernicke and Sergei Korsakoff who first described the condition.

Causes

Thiamine deficiency is most commonly caused by inadequate intake of thiamine-rich foods, malabsorption conditions such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, or excessive alcohol consumption which can interfere with thiamine absorption.

Symptoms

Symptoms of thiamine deficiency can include fatigue, irritability, memory problems, muscle weakness, and cardiovascular issues such as heart failure. In severe cases, it can lead to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a serious neurological disorder characterized by confusion, coordination problems, and memory loss.

Treatment

Treatment for thiamine deficiency involves increasing intake of thiamine, either through diet or supplements. In severe cases, thiamine may be administered intravenously. It is also important to treat any underlying conditions that may be causing the deficiency.

Related Terms

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