Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is a brain disease that involves a range of neurological problems and primarily occurs due to a deficiency of B vitamins, especially thiamine (vitamin B1). Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome actually consists of the combination of two different syndromes:
Wernicke syndrome: Wernicke Syndrome primarily occurs due to thiamine deficiency and is often seen in individuals who consume alcohol excessively or are alcoholics. The symptoms of this syndrome include weakness, coordination disorders, abnormal eye movements, and changes in mental state. When not recognized quickly, the symptoms of this syndrome can worsen and become fatal.
Korsakoff syndrome: Korsakoff Syndrome occurs when Wernicke Syndrome is not treated or thiamine deficiency continues persistently. The symptoms of this syndrome include severe memory loss, difficulty in learning, short-term memory deficiency, and confusion. Korsakoff Syndrome can occur as a result of long-term alcohol abuse.
What are the Causes of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
The main cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. This deficiency occurs when the body does not absorb thiamine adequately or cannot use it in sufficient amounts. The causes of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome can be as follows:
alcoholism: Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is often seen in individuals who consume alcohol excessively or are alcoholics. Alcohol can disrupt the absorption and utilization of thiamine by the body. At the same time, alcohol can reduce thiamine stores and increase the risk of thiamine deficiency.
inadequate nutrition: People are at risk of thiamine deficiency when they do not consume thiamine with an insufficient or unbalanced diet. Especially in developing countries, thiamine deficiency can be more common due to inadequate nutrition.
digestive problems: Some digestive problems can make thiamine absorption difficult. For example, digestive problems such as chronic diarrhea or inflammatory bowel disease can increase the risk of thiamine deficiency.
anorexia nervosa: Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa can increase the risk of thiamine deficiency due to inadequate nutrition.
gastric bypass surgery: Obesity surgeries such as gastric bypass surgery can affect thiamine absorption and lead to thiamine deficiency.
diabetes: Diabetes can increase the risk of thiamine deficiency because high blood sugar levels can affect the utilization of thiamine in the body.
What are the Symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome has two main components: Wernicke Syndrome and Korsakoff Syndrome. The symptoms of both syndromes are different and usually follow each other. Here are the symptoms of both syndromes:
- Symptoms of Wernicke Syndrome: Wernicke Syndrome is the first stage of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome and occurs due to thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. The symptoms of this syndrome can include:
- rapid eye movements (nystagmus)
- weakness and coordination disorders
- blurred vision or double vision
- dizziness and loss of balance
- rapid heartbeat
- loss of appetite and weight loss
- mental confusion and memory problems
- communication and speech problems
- Symptoms of Korsakoff Syndrome: If Wernicke Syndrome is left untreated or thiamine deficiency continues persistently, Korsakoff Syndrome may occur. The symptoms of Korsakoff Syndrome can include:
- severe memory loss, especially difficulty in learning new information
- telling lies or confabulation
- confusion of time, place, and people
- impairment of coordination of movements
- anxiety, depression, or paranoid thoughts
- decreased desire to drink alcohol
- social and occupational problems
How is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Diagnosed?
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is typically diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and the patient’s medical history. Doctors may follow the steps below when evaluating the patient’s symptoms and history:
- physical examination
- medical history
- blood tests
- imaging tests
- electroencephalogram (EEG)
How is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Treated?
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome occurs due to thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, so the treatment mainly involves thiamine supplementation. The treatment is personalized depending on the patient’s symptoms and the stage of the syndrome. Here are the treatment approaches for Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome:
- thiamine supplementation
- correction of electrolyte balance
- other supportive treatments
- imaging and tests
- treatment for Korsakoff syndrome
How Should the Management of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Be?
The management of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome aims to alleviate the patients’ symptoms, support recovery, and prevent future attacks. The management of the syndrome may include the following measures:
- thiamine supplementation
- control of alcohol use
- healthy nutrition
- regular doctor check-ups
- cognitive rehabilitation and psychotherapy
- support groups
- personal care
