What is Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). It is characterized by two main symptoms: Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome.

Wernicke encephalopathy is an acute condition that can develop rapidly, often within a few days or weeks of thiamine deficiency. Symptoms include:

* Confusion and disorientation

* Drowsiness and lethargy

* Problems with vision, such as double vision or blurred vision

* Difficulty walking or maintaining balance

* Nausea and vomiting

* Loss of appetite

If Wernicke encephalopathy is not treated promptly, it can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.

Korsakoff syndrome is a chronic condition that develops after Wernicke encephalopathy or as a result of long-term thiamine deficiency. Symptoms include:

* Memory loss, especially for recent events

* Difficulty learning new information

* Problems with attention and concentration

* Confabulation, which is the making up of false memories

* Disorientation and confusion

* Apathy and lack of motivation

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is most commonly seen in people with alcoholism, but it can also occur in people with other conditions that lead to thiamine deficiency, such as:

* Malnutrition

* Eating disorders

* Cancer

* Gastrointestinal disorders

* Liver disease

Treatment for Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome involves giving thiamine supplements to correct the deficiency. This can be done orally or intravenously. In addition, treatment may be needed for any underlying conditions that are contributing to the thiamine deficiency.