The classic Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is presented with the clinical triad of confusion, ataxia and nystagmus.
It is considered to be 2 different syndromes, one being characterized by acute/sub acute confusion and often reversible symptoms of Wernicke encephalopathy (the type of delusion) and the other with persistent and irreversible symptoms of Korsakoff dementia.
Wernicke-Korsakoff's syndrome is a result of vitamin B1 deficiency (thiamine).
In the onset of the syndrome a significant role is played by:
- Alcoholism: Alcohol interferes with active gastrointestinal transport of thiamine. At the same time, causing chronic liver disease leads to decreased ability of the liver to store thiamine.
- Bariatric surgery: In bariatric surgery that deals with obesity surgery, symptoms may still occur from the first few weeks after surgery. Restoration usually takes 3-6 months after initiation of treatment, which may be incomplete if the syndrome is not recognized and treated promptly.
- Dietary deficiency in certain diets
- Anorexia nervosa, schizophrenia and others
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome appears with symptoms of diplopia, strabismus, gait problems and behavioral problems such as apathy, indifference, speechlessness, hallucinations, agitation. The patient completes the memory gaps with data that can be recalled at that time.
Other conditions that may be associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome include the following:
- Weight loss or reduced body mass index
- High intake of carbohydrates, excluding a balanced diet
- Mental malfunction or autism with a diet limited to one or a few foods.
- Repeated vomiting (Hyperemesis gravidarum)
- Co-morbidity with poor nutrition in diseases such as: pellagra, iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B-12 deficiency polyneuropathy, etc.
All Programs of “Veresies” Clinic are approved and supervised by the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (CNAA).
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