INFORMATION ON WERNICKE-KORSAKOFF SYNDROME:-

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome may be defined as neurological disorder involving in loss of specific brain functions caused by a deficiency of thiamine.

CAUSES OF WERNICKE-KORSAKOFF SYNDROME:-

The main factors which are responsible for the development of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome are:-

1. Injury to brain.
2. Injury to spinal cord.
3. Use of alcohol in day to day life.
4. Lack of vitamin B1.

SYMPTOMS OF WERNICKE-KORSAKOFF SYNDROME:-

1. Double vision
2. Eye movement abnormalities
3. Eyelid drooping
4. Unsteady, uncoordinated walking
5. Loss of memory, can be profound
6. Inability to form new memories
7. Confabulation

DIAGNOSIS OF WERNICKE-KORSAKOFF SYNDROME:-

Clinically Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can be clinically identified by:-
1. MRI.
2. Testing of gait and coordination indicates damage to portions of the brain that control muscle coordination.
3. Muscles may be weak and may show atrophy.
4. Examination of the eyes shows abnormalities of eye movement.
5. Blood pressure and body temperature measurement may be low.

TREATMENT OF WERNICKE-KORSAKOFF SYNDROME:-

The goals of treatment are to control symptoms as much as possible and to prevent progression of the disorder. Hospitalization is required for initial control of symptoms.
Thiamine (vitamin B1) may improve symptoms of confusion or delirium, difficulties with vision and eye movement, and muscle Incoordination. Vitamin B1 may be given by injection into a vein or a muscle, or by mouth.
Thiamine does not generally improve loss of memory and intellect associated with Korsakoff psychosis