Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (pronunciation: VERN-ih-kee kor-sa-KOFF) is a neurological disorder characterized by severe memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with coordination. It is primarily caused by a deficiency in the vitamin thiamine (vitamin B1).

Etymology

The syndrome is named after two physicians, Carl Wernicke and Sergei Korsakoff, who independently described the condition in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wernicke, a German neurologist, first identified the acute phase of the illness, which is now known as Wernicke's encephalopathy. Korsakoff, a Russian psychiatrist, later described the chronic phase that bears his name, Korsakoff's psychosis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can be divided into two stages. The first stage, Wernicke's encephalopathy, is characterized by mental confusion, eye movement disorders, and unsteady coordination. If left untreated, this can progress to Korsakoff's psychosis, which is marked by severe memory loss and the inability to form new memories.

Causes

The primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a deficiency in thiamine. This is most commonly seen in individuals with chronic alcoholism, as alcohol interferes with the body's ability to absorb thiamine. However, it can also occur as a result of malnutrition, prolonged fasting, or the effects of certain medical conditions or treatments.

Treatment

Treatment for Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome involves replacing the deficient thiamine, often through high-dose supplements. In some cases, dietary changes or treatment for alcoholism may also be necessary.

Related Terms

• Thiamine
• Wernicke's encephalopathy
• Korsakoff's psychosis
• Alcoholism
• Neurology

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
• Wikipedia's article - Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

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