Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is a brain problem that affects thinking, eye movements, and balance. WKS can cause long-term memory loss.
The condition has two phases. Wernicke encephalopathy happens first. If the condition gets worse, Korsakoff syndrome happens next.
This condition can permanently damage the areas of the brain that are responsible for memory. Wernicke encephalopathy is a medical emergency.
What are the causes?
This condition is caused by not getting enough vitamin B1 (thiamine). This can happen due to:
Drinking too much alcohol (alcoholism). This is the most common cause.
Not eating enough healthy foods, also called poor nutrition.
Certain medical conditions.
Surgery on the stomach or intestines.
Very bad vomiting in pregnancy.
What increases the risk?
You may be more likely to get WKS if:
You have acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
You have long-term infections.
You are not eating because of fear of weight gain (anorexia nervosa).
You have kidney dialysis.
You have advanced cancer.
What are the signs or symptoms?
Symptoms of this condition may vary based on the stage of the disease.
Symptoms of Wernicke encephalopathy include:
Problems with muscle coordination.
Eye movements that are not normal.
Confusion.
Losing your mental abilities.
Double vision.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
As the disease gets worse, symptoms of Korsakoff syndrome may develop. These include:
Very bad memory loss.
Not being able to form new memories.
Seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, or feeling things that are not real. These are called hallucinations.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed based on your symptoms and medical history. Your health care provider may suspect this condition if you drink too much alcohol. You may also have tests, such as:
A physical exam.
Blood tests to check your thiamine level and to look for other signs that you aren't getting enough healthy foods
Imaging tests to look for changes in the brain and other parts of the body. These may include MRI and CT scans.
How is this treated?
Treatment for this condition needs to start early. If the condition is diagnosed and treated in the early stages, it can be reversed. If the condition is left untreated, it can cause permanent brain damage. Treatment may include:
Thiamine replacement therapy. You may be given thiamine through an IV or by mouth.
Treatment for alcoholism.
Treatment for poor nutrition.
Medicine.
Mental health counseling.
Follow these instructions at home:
Lifestyle
General instructions
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Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your provider.
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Get support from a caregiver if you need it.
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Keep all follow-up visits. You may need to see a mental health counselor or go to a dietitian to talk about healthy eating.
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke:
ninds.nih.gov
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Contact a health care provider if:
Get help right away if you feel like you may hurt yourself or others, or have thoughts about taking your own life. Go to your nearest emergency room or:
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.
