Wernicke's encephalopathy Flashcards
What is Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Wernicke’s encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, most commonly seen in alcoholics.
Rarer causes include persistent vomiting, anorexia nervosa, stomach cancer, and dietary deficiency.
What is the classic triad of symptoms in Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
The classic triad includes ophthalmoplegia/nystagmus, ataxia, and encephalopathy.
What types of brain structures are affected in Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Petechial haemorrhages occur in various structures, including the mamillary bodies and ventricle walls.
What are the features of Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Features include oculomotor dysfunction, nystagmus, ophthalmoplegia, gait ataxia, encephalopathy, and peripheral sensory neuropathy.
What is the most common ocular sign in Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Nystagmus is the most common ocular sign.
What investigations are used for Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Investigations include decreased red cell transketolase and MRI.
What is the treatment for Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
The treatment is urgent replacement of thiamine.
What is the relationship between Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome?
If not treated, Korsakoff’s syndrome may develop, termed Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, characterized by antero- and retrograde amnesia and confabulation.
Wernicke’s encephalopathy Relationship with Korsakoff syndrome
