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Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is a neurological disorder resulting from a severe deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1) in the brain. It is often associated with chronic alcoholism but can also occur due to other factors such as malnutrition or gastrointestinal disorders. This syndrome is characterized by two distinct but related conditions: Wernicke's encephalopathy and Korsakoff's psychosis.

Wernicke's encephalopathy

Wernicke's encephalopathy is the acute phase of WKS and typically presents with symptoms such as confusion, abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) and difficulty with muscle coordination (ataxia). These symptoms arise due to damage to specific regions of the brain involved in cognitive function and motor control, primarily the thalamus and hypothalamus.

Causes

The primary cause of WKS is thiamine deficiency, which can occur due to several factors. Chronic alcohol abuse is a leading cause as alcohol interferes with thiamine absorption and utilization in the body. Poor dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes and certain medical conditions can also lead to thiamine deficiency and subsequently WKS.

Korsakoff's psychosis

Korsakoff's psychosis, also known as Korsakoff's syndrome, is the chronic phase of WKS characterized by memory impairment and confabulation. Confabulation refers to the production of false memories to fill in gaps caused by memory loss. People with Korsakoff's psychosis often have difficulty recalling past events and forming new memories, leading to significant impairments in daily functioning.

Treatment

Early recognition and treatment of WKS are crucial for preventing irreversible brain damage and improving outcomes. Treatment typically involves thiamine supplementation, either orally or intravenously, to restore thiamine levels in the body and brain. In addition to thiamine, supportive care and interventions to address underlying factors such as alcohol dependence or malnutrition are essential for long-term management.