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{{short description|Combined presence of Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) and Korsakoff's syndrome}}
{{Short description|Combined presence of Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) and Korsakoff's syndrome}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2024}}
{{Infobox medical condition (new)
{{Infobox medical condition (new)
| name = Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome
| name = Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
| image = Thiamine cation 3D ball.png
| image = Thiamine cation 3D ball.png
| synonyms = Korsakoff's psychosis, cerebral beriberi,<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Arányi |first=J. |date=1991-11-24 |title=[Cerebral beriberi with ophthalmoplegia as the leading symptom in an alcoholic patient] |url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1956687/ |journal=Orvosi Hetilap |volume=132 |issue=47 |pages=2627–2628 |issn=0030-6002 |pmid=1956687}}</ref> alcoholic encephalopathy,<ref name=Medline771 /> "wet brain"<ref>{{cite book |last=Millichap |first=J. Gordon |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TT-9BAAAQBAJ&pg=PA259 |title=Neurological Syndromes: A Clinical Guide to Symptoms and Diagnosis |date=August 4, 2013 |publisher=Springer Science & Business Media |isbn=978-1-4614-7786-0 |language=en}}</ref>
| synonyms = Korsakoff's psychosis, alcoholic encephalopathy,<ref name=Medline771 /> "wet brain"<ref>[https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/wet-brain Wet Brain from Alcohol: Signs, Symptoms, and Recovery] November 25, 2020</ref>
| caption = [[Thiamine]]
| caption = [[Thiamine]]
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| field = [[Psychiatry]], [[neurology]]
| field = [[Psychiatry]], [[neurology]]
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<!-- Definition and symptoms -->
<!-- Definition and symptoms -->
'''Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome''' ('''WKS''') is the combined presence of [[Wernicke encephalopathy]] (WE) and [[Korsakoff syndrome]]. Due to the close relationship between these two disorders, people with either are usually diagnosed with WKS as a single syndrome. It mainly causes vision changes, [[ataxia]] and impaired memory.<ref name="Medline771">{{MedlinePlusEncyclopedia|000771|Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome}}</ref>
'''Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome''' ('''WKS''') is the combined presence of [[Wernicke encephalopathy]] (WE) and alcoholic [[Korsakoff syndrome]] (AKS {{clarify|Does AKS if fact refer to (Alcoholic Korsakoff Syndrome?|date=April 2024}}). Due to the close relationship between these two disorders, people with either are usually diagnosed with WKS as a single syndrome. It mainly causes vision changes, [[ataxia]] and impaired memory.<ref name="Medline771">{{MedlinePlusEncyclopedia|000771|Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome}}</ref>


<!-- Cause and diagnosis -->
<!-- Cause and diagnosis -->
The cause of the disorder is [[thiamine deficiency|thiamine (vitamin B<sub>1</sub>) deficiency]]. This can occur due to Wernicke encephalopathy, eating disorders, malnutrition, and alcohol abuse. These disorders may manifest together or separately. WKS is usually secondary to prolonged alcohol abuse.
The cause of the disorder is [[thiamine deficiency|thiamine (vitamin B<sub>1</sub>) deficiency]]. This can occur due to Wernicke encephalopathy, [[eating disorder]]s, [[malnutrition]], and [[alcohol abuse]]. These disorders may manifest together or separately. WKS is usually secondary to prolonged alcohol abuse.


<!-- Treatment and epidemiology -->
<!-- Treatment and epidemiology -->
Wernicke encephalopathy and WKS are most commonly seen in people with an [[alcohol use disorder]]. Failure in diagnosis of WE and thus treatment of the disease leads to death in approximately 20% of cases, while 75% are left with permanent brain damage associated with WKS.<ref name="thomson">{{cite journal |last1=Thomson |first1=Allan D. |last2=Marshall |first2=E. Jane |title=The natural history and pathophysiology of Wernicke's Encephalopathy and Korsakoff's Psychosis |journal=Alcohol and Alcoholism |volume=41 |issue=2 |pages=151–8 |year=2006 |pmid=16384871 |doi=10.1093/alcalc/agh249 |doi-access=free }}</ref> Of those affected, 25% require long-term institutionalization in order to receive effective care.<ref name="thomson"/><ref name=":2"/>
Wernicke encephalopathy and WKS are most commonly seen in people with an [[alcohol use disorder]]. Failure in diagnosis of WE and thus treatment of the disease leads to death in approximately 20% of cases, while 75% are left with permanent [[brain damage]] associated with WKS.<ref name="thomson">{{cite journal |last1=Thomson |first1=Allan D. |last2=Marshall |first2=E. Jane |title=The natural history and pathophysiology of Wernicke's Encephalopathy and Korsakoff's Psychosis |journal=Alcohol and Alcoholism |volume=41 |issue=2 |pages=151–8 |year=2006 |pmid=16384871 |doi=10.1093/alcalc/agh249 |doi-access= }}</ref> Of those affected, 25% require long-term institutionalization in order to receive effective care.<ref name="thomson"/><ref name="pmid31876326"/>


==Signs and symptoms==
==Signs and symptoms==
The syndrome is a combined manifestation of two namesake disorders, [[Wernicke encephalopathy]] and [[alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome]]. It involves an acute Wernicke-encephalopathy phase, followed by the development of a Korsakoff syndrome phase.<ref name="vetreno"/>
The syndrome is a combined manifestation of two namesake disorders, [[Wernicke encephalopathy]] and [[alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome|Korsakoff syndrome]]. It involves an acute Wernicke-encephalopathy phase, followed by the development of a Korsakoff syndrome phase.<ref name="vetreno"/>


===Wernicke encephalopathy===
===Wernicke encephalopathy===
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# Unsteady stance and [[gait]] ([[ataxia]])
# Unsteady stance and [[gait]] ([[ataxia]])


This triad of symptoms results from a deficiency in vitamin B<sub>1</sub> which is an essential [[coenzyme]]. The aforementioned changes in mental state occur in approximately 82% of patients' symptoms of which range from confusion, [[apathy]], inability to concentrate, and a decrease in awareness of the immediate situation they are in. If left untreated, WE can lead to coma or death. In about 29% of patients, ocular disturbances consist of [[nystagmus]] and paralysis of the [[lateral rectus muscle]]s or other muscles in the eye. A smaller percentage of patients experience a decrease in reaction time of the pupils to light stimuli and swelling of the [[optic disc]] which may be accompanied by [[retinal hemorrhage]]. Finally, the symptoms involving stance and gait occur in about 23% of patients and result from dysfunction in the [[cerebellum]] and [[vestibular system]]. Other symptoms that have been present in cases of WE are [[stupor]], low blood pressure ([[hypotension]]), elevated heart rate ([[tachycardia]]), as well as [[hypothermia]], [[epileptic seizures]] and a progressive loss of hearing.<ref name="Sechi" />
This triad of symptoms results from a deficiency in [[Thiamine|vitamin B<sub>1</sub>]] which is an essential [[coenzyme]]. The aforementioned changes in mental state occur in approximately 82% of patients' symptoms which range from confusion, [[apathy]], inability to concentrate, and a decrease in awareness of the immediate situation they are in. If left untreated, WE can lead to coma or death. In about 29% of patients, ocular disturbances consist of [[nystagmus]] and paralysis of the [[lateral rectus muscle]]s or other muscles in the eye. A smaller percentage of patients experience a decrease in reaction time of the pupils to light stimuli and swelling of the [[optic disc]] which may be accompanied by [[retinal hemorrhage]]. Finally, the symptoms involving stance and gait occur in about 23% of patients and result from dysfunction in the [[cerebellum]] and [[vestibular system]]. Other symptoms that have been present in cases of WE are [[stupor]], low blood pressure ([[hypotension]]), elevated heart rate ([[tachycardia]]), as well as [[hypothermia]], [[epileptic seizures]] and a progressive loss of hearing.<ref name="Sechi" />


About 19% of patients have none of the symptoms in the classic triad at first diagnosis of WE; however, usually one or more of the symptoms develops later as the disease progresses.<ref name="Sechi" />
About 19% of patients have none of the symptoms in the classic triad at first diagnosis of WE; however, usually one or more of the symptoms develops later as the disease progresses.<ref name="Sechi" />


===Korsakoff syndrome===
===Korsakoff syndrome===
The DSM-V classifies Korsakoff syndrome under Substance/Medication-Induced Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorders, specifically alcohol-induced amnestic confabulatory.<ref name=":3">{{Cite book|title=Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5.|date=2013|publisher=American Psychiatric Association|others=American Psychiatric Association., American Psychiatric Association. DSM-5 Task Force.|isbn=978-0-89042-554-1|edition=5th|location=Arlington, VA|oclc=830807378}}</ref> The diagnostic criteria defined as necessary for diagnosis includes, prominent amnesia, forgetting quickly, and difficulty learning. Presence of thiamine deficient encephalopathy can occur in conjunction with these symptoms.<ref name=":3" />
The DSM-5 classifies Korsakoff syndrome under Substance/Medication-Induced Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorders, specifically alcohol-induced amnestic confabulatory.<ref name="American Psychiatric Association-2013">{{cite book|title=Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5.|date=2013|publisher=American Psychiatric Association|others=American Psychiatric Association., American Psychiatric Association. DSM-5 Task Force.|isbn=978-0-89042-554-1|edition=5th|location=Arlington, VA|oclc=830807378}}</ref> The diagnostic criteria defined as necessary for diagnosis includes prominent amnesia, forgetting quickly, and difficulty learning. Presence of thiamine deficient [[encephalopathy]] can occur in conjunction with these symptoms.<ref name="American Psychiatric Association-2013" />


Despite the assertion that alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome must be caused by the use of alcohol, there have been several cases where it has developed from other instances of thiamine deficiency resulting from gross malnutrition due to conditions such as stomach cancer, [[anorexia nervosa]], and [[gastrectomy]].<ref>{{cite news |first1=V. |last1=Ingram |first2=M. |last2=Kelly |first3=G. |last3=Grammer |title=Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Following Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for Sleep Apnea}} in {{cite journal |title=Abstracts Presented at the Thirty-First Annual International Neuropsychological Society Conference, February 5–8, 2003 Honolulu, Hawaii |journal=Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society |volume=9 |issue=2 |year=2003 |pages=135–330 |doi=10.1017/S1355617703920017|doi-access=free }}</ref>
Despite the assertion that alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome must be caused by the use of alcohol, there have been several cases where it has developed from other instances of thiamine deficiency resulting from gross malnutrition due to conditions such as stomach cancer, [[anorexia nervosa]], and [[gastrectomy]].<ref>{{cite news |first1=V. |last1=Ingram |first2=M. |last2=Kelly |first3=G. |last3=Grammer |title=Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Following Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for Sleep Apnea}} in {{cite journal |title=Abstracts Presented at the Thirty-First Annual International Neuropsychological Society Conference, February 5–8, 2003 Honolulu, Hawaii |journal=Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society |volume=9 |issue=2 |year=2003 |pages=135–330 |doi=10.1017/S1355617703920017|doi-access=free }}</ref>


===Cognitive effects===
===Cognitive effects===
Several cases have been documented where Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome has been seen on a large scale. In 1947, 52 cases of WKS were documented in a prisoner of war hospital in Singapore where the prisoners' diets included less than 1&nbsp;mg of thiamine per day. Such cases provide an opportunity to gain an understanding of what effects this syndrome has on [[cognition]]. In this particular case, cognitive symptoms included [[insomnia]], [[anxiety]], difficulties in concentration, loss of memory for the immediate past, and gradual degeneration of mental state; consisting of confusion, [[confabulation]], and [[hallucinations]].<ref name="thomson"/> In other cases of WKS, cognitive effects such as severely disrupted speech, giddiness, and [[heavy-headedness]] have been documented. In addition to this, it has been noted that some patients displayed an inability to focus, and the inability of others to catch patients' attention.<ref name="wernickes review">{{cite journal |last1=Thomson |first1=Allan D. |last2=Cook |first2=Christopher C. H. |last3=Guerrini |first3=Irene |last4=Sheedy |first4=Donna |last5=Harper |first5=Clive |last6=Marshall |first6=E. Jane |title=Review: Wernicke encephalopathy revisited: Translation of the case history section of the original manuscript by Carl Wernicke 'Lehrbuch der Gehirnkrankheiten fur Aerzte and Studirende' (1881) with a commentary |journal=Alcohol and Alcoholism |volume=43 |issue=2 |pages=174–9 |year=2008 |pmid=18056751 |doi=10.1093/alcalc/agm144 |doi-access=free }}</ref>
Several cases have been documented where Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome has been seen on a large scale. In 1947, 52 cases of WKS were documented in a prisoner of war hospital in Singapore where the prisoners' diets included less than 1&nbsp;mg of thiamine per day. Such cases provide an opportunity to gain an understanding of what effects this syndrome has on [[cognition]]. In this particular case, cognitive symptoms included [[insomnia]], [[anxiety]], difficulties in concentration, loss of memory for the immediate past, and gradual degeneration of mental state; consisting of confusion, [[confabulation]], and [[hallucinations]].<ref name="thomson"/> In other cases of WKS, cognitive effects such as severely disrupted speech, giddiness, and [[heavy-headedness]] have been documented. In addition to this, it has been noted that some patients displayed an inability to focus, and the inability of others to catch patients' attention.<ref name="wernickes review">{{cite journal |last1=Thomson |first1=Allan D. |last2=Cook |first2=Christopher C. H. |last3=Guerrini |first3=Irene |last4=Sheedy |first4=Donna |last5=Harper |first5=Clive |last6=Marshall |first6=E. Jane |title=Review: Wernicke encephalopathy revisited: Translation of the case history section of the original manuscript by Carl Wernicke 'Lehrbuch der Gehirnkrankheiten fur Aerzte and Studirende' (1881) with a commentary |journal=Alcohol and Alcoholism |volume=43 |issue=2 |pages=174–9 |year=2008 |pmid=18056751 |doi=10.1093/alcalc/agm144 |doi-access=free }}</ref>


In a study conducted in 2003 by Brand et al. on the cognitive effects of WKS, the researchers used a [[neuropsychological]] test battery which included tests of intelligence, speed of [[information processing]], memory, executive function and cognitive estimation. They found that subjects with WKS showed impairments in all aspects of this test battery but most noticeably, on the cognitive estimation tasks. This task required subjects to estimate a physical quality such as size, weight, quantity or time (e.g. What is the average length of a shower?), of a particular item. Patients with WKS performed worse than normal control participants on all of the tasks in this category. The patients found estimations involving time to be the most difficult, whereas quantity was the easiest estimation to make. Additionally, the study included a category for classifying "bizarre" answers, which included any answer that was far outside of the normal range of expected responses. WKS patients did give answers that could fall into such a category and these included answers such as 15s or 1 hour for the estimated length of a shower, or 4&nbsp;kg or 15 tonnes as the weight of a car.<ref name="KScog">{{cite journal |last1=Brand |first1=Matthias |last2=Fujiwara |first2=Esther |last3=Kalbe |first3=Elke |last4=Steingass |first4=Hans-Peter |last5=Kessler |first5=Josef |last6=Markowitsch |first6=Hans J. |title=Cognitive Estimation and Affective Judgments in Alcoholic Korsakoff Patients|journal=Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology |volume=25 |issue=3 |pages=324–34 |year=2003 |pmid=12916646 |doi=10.1076/jcen.25.3.324.13802 |citeseerx=10.1.1.327.3291 |s2cid=17769551 }}</ref>
In a study conducted in 2003 by Brand et al. on the cognitive effects of WKS, the researchers used a [[neuropsychological]] test battery which included tests of intelligence, speed of [[Information processing (psychology)|information processing]], memory, executive function and cognitive estimation. They found that subjects with WKS showed impairments in all aspects of this test battery but most noticeably, on the cognitive estimation tasks. This task required subjects to estimate a physical quality such as size, weight, quantity or time (e.g. What is the average length of a shower?) of a particular item. Patients with WKS performed worse than normal control participants on all of the tasks in this category. The patients found estimations involving time to be the most difficult, whereas quantity was the easiest estimation to make. Additionally, the study included a category for classifying "bizarre" answers, which included any answer that was far outside of the normal range of expected responses. WKS patients did give answers that could fall into such a category, such as 15 seconds or 1 hour for the estimated length of a shower, or 4&nbsp;kg or 15 tonnes as the weight of a car.<ref name="KScog">{{cite journal |last1=Brand |first1=Matthias |last2=Fujiwara |first2=Esther |last3=Kalbe |first3=Elke |last4=Steingass |first4=Hans-Peter |last5=Kessler |first5=Josef |last6=Markowitsch |first6=Hans J. |title=Cognitive Estimation and Affective Judgments in Alcoholic Korsakoff Patients|journal=Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology |volume=25 |issue=3 |pages=324–34 |year=2003 |pmid=12916646 |doi=10.1076/jcen.25.3.324.13802 |citeseerx=10.1.1.327.3291 |s2cid=17769551 }}</ref>


===Memory deficits===
===Memory deficits===
As mentioned previously, the amnesic symptoms of WKS include both retrograde and anterograde amnesia.<ref name="vetreno">{{cite book |last1=Vetreno |first1=Ryan Peter |year=2011 |title=Thiamine deficiency-induced neurodegeneration and neurogenesis |type=PhD Thesis |publisher=Binghamton University |oclc=781626781 |isbn=978-1-124-75696-7}}{{page needed|date=July 2015}}</ref> The retrograde deficit has been demonstrated through an inability of WKS patients to recall or recognize information for recent public events. The anterograde memory loss is demonstrated through deficits in tasks that involve [[encoding]] and then recalling lists of words and faces, as well as [[semantic]] learning tasks. WKS patients have also demonstrated difficulties in perseveration as evidenced by a deficit in performance on the [[Wisconsin Card Sorting Test]].<ref name="vetreno"/> The retrograde amnesia that accompanies WKS can extend as far back as twenty to thirty years, and there is generally a temporal gradient seen, where earlier memories are recalled better than more recent memories.<ref name="Kopelman">{{cite journal |last1=Kopelman |first1=M. D. |last2=Thomson |first2=A. D. |last3=Guerrini |first3=I. |last4=Marshall |first4=E. J. |title=The Korsakoff Syndrome: Clinical Aspects, Psychology and Treatment |journal=Alcohol and Alcoholism |volume=44 |issue=2 |pages=148–54 |year=2009 |pmid=19151162 |doi=10.1093/alcalc/agn118 |doi-access=free }}</ref> It has been widely accepted that the critical structures that lead to the memory impairment in WKS are the mammillary bodies, and the thalamic regions.<ref name="Oscar">{{cite journal |last1=Oscar-Berman |first1=Marlene |last2=Pulaski |first2=Joan L. |title=Associative learning and recognition memory in alcoholic Korsakoff patients |journal=Neuropsychology |volume=11 |issue=2 |pages=282–9 |year=1997 |pmid=9110334 |doi=10.1037/0894-4105.11.2.282 }}</ref> Despite the aforementioned memory deficits, [[non-declarative memory]] functions appear to be intact in WKS patients. This has been demonstrated through measures that assess [[perceptual priming]].<ref name="vetreno"/>
The amnesic symptoms of WKS include both retrograde and anterograde amnesia.<ref name="vetreno">{{cite book |last1=Vetreno |first1=Ryan Peter |year=2011 |title=Thiamine deficiency-induced neurodegeneration and neurogenesis |type=PhD Thesis |publisher=Binghamton University |oclc=781626781 |isbn=978-1-124-75696-7}}{{page needed|date=July 2015}}</ref> The retrograde deficit has been demonstrated through an inability of WKS patients to recall or recognize information for recent public events. The anterograde memory loss is demonstrated through deficits in tasks that involve [[encoding]] and then recalling lists of words and faces, as well as [[semantic]] learning tasks. WKS patients have also demonstrated difficulties in perseveration as evidenced by a deficit in performance on the [[Wisconsin Card Sorting Test]].<ref name="vetreno"/> The retrograde amnesia that accompanies WKS can extend as far back as twenty to thirty years, and there is generally a temporal gradient seen, where earlier memories are recalled better than more recent memories.<ref name="Kopelman">{{cite journal |last1=Kopelman |first1=M. D. |last2=Thomson |first2=A. D. |last3=Guerrini |first3=I. |last4=Marshall |first4=E. J. |title=The Korsakoff Syndrome: Clinical Aspects, Psychology and Treatment |journal=Alcohol and Alcoholism |volume=44 |issue=2 |pages=148–54 |year=2009 |pmid=19151162 |doi=10.1093/alcalc/agn118 |doi-access= }}</ref> It has been widely accepted that the critical structures that lead to the memory impairment in WKS are the mammillary bodies, and the thalamic regions.<ref name="Oscar">{{cite journal |last1=Oscar-Berman |first1=Marlene |last2=Pulaski |first2=Joan L. |title=Associative learning and recognition memory in alcoholic Korsakoff patients |journal=Neuropsychology |volume=11 |issue=2 |pages=282–9 |year=1997 |pmid=9110334 |doi=10.1037/0894-4105.11.2.282 }}</ref> Despite the aforementioned memory deficits, [[non-declarative memory]] functions appear to be intact in WKS patients. This has been demonstrated through measures that assess [[perceptual priming]].<ref name="vetreno"/>


Other studies have shown deficits in [[recognition memory]] and stimulus-reward associative functions in patients with WKS.<ref name="Oscar" /> The deficit in stimulus-reward functions was demonstrated by Oscar-Berman and Pulaski who presented patients with reinforcements for certain stimuli but not others, and then required the patients to distinguish the rewarded stimuli from the non-rewarded stimuli. WKS patients displayed significant deficits in this task. The researchers were also successful in displaying a deficit in recognition memory by having patients make a yes/no decision as to whether a stimulus was familiar (previously seen) or novel (not previously seen). The patients in this study also showed a significant deficit in their ability to perform this task.<ref name="Oscar" />
Other studies have shown deficits in [[recognition memory]] and stimulus-reward associative functions in patients with WKS.<ref name="Oscar" /> The deficit in stimulus-reward functions was demonstrated by Oscar-Berman and Pulaski who presented patients with reinforcements for certain stimuli but not others, and then required the patients to distinguish the rewarded stimuli from the non-rewarded stimuli. WKS patients displayed significant deficits in this task. The researchers were also successful in displaying a deficit in recognition memory by having patients make a yes/no decision as to whether a stimulus was familiar (previously seen) or novel (not previously seen). The patients in this study also showed a significant deficit in their ability to perform this task.<ref name="Oscar" />


===Confabulation===
===Confabulation===
People with WKS often show [[confabulation]], spontaneous confabulation being seen more frequently than provoked confabulation.<ref name="confabulation">{{cite journal |last1=Kessels |first1=Roy P. C. |last2=Kortrijk |first2=Hans E. |last3=Wester |first3=Arie J. |last4=Nys |first4=Gudrun M. S. |title=Confabulation behavior and false memories in Korsakoff's syndrome: Role of source memory and executive functioning |journal=Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences |volume=62 |issue=2 |pages=220–5 |year=2008 |pmid=18412846 |doi=10.1111/j.1440-1819.2008.01758.x |doi-access=free }}</ref> Spontaneous confabulations refer to incorrect memories that the patient holds to be true, and may act on, arising spontaneously without any provocation. Provoked confabulations can occur when a patient is cued to give a response, this may occur in test settings. The spontaneous confabulations viewed in WKS are thought to be produced by an impairment in source memory, where they are unable to remember the spatial and contextual information for an event, and thus may use irrelevant or old memory traces to fill in for the information that they cannot access. It has also been suggested that this behaviour may be due to executive dysfunction where they are unable to inhibit incorrect memories or because they are unable to shift their attention away from an incorrect response.<ref name="confabulation"/>
People with WKS often show [[confabulation]], spontaneous confabulation being seen more frequently than provoked confabulation.<ref name="confabulation">{{cite journal |last1=Kessels |first1=Roy P. C. |last2=Kortrijk |first2=Hans E. |last3=Wester |first3=Arie J. |last4=Nys |first4=Gudrun M. S. |title=Confabulation behavior and false memories in Korsakoff's syndrome: Role of source memory and executive functioning |journal=Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences |volume=62 |issue=2 |pages=220–5 |year=2008 |pmid=18412846 |doi=10.1111/j.1440-1819.2008.01758.x |doi-access=free |hdl=2066/71348 |hdl-access=free }}</ref> Spontaneous confabulations refer to incorrect memories that the patient holds to be true, and may act on, arising spontaneously without any provocation. Provoked confabulations can occur when a patient is cued to give a response, this may occur in test settings. The spontaneous confabulations viewed in WKS are thought to be produced by an impairment in source memory, where they are unable to remember the spatial and contextual information for an event, and thus may use irrelevant or old memory traces to fill in for the information that they cannot access. It has also been suggested that this behaviour may be due to executive dysfunction where they are unable to inhibit incorrect memories or because they are unable to shift their attention away from an incorrect response.<ref name="confabulation"/>


==Causes==
==Causes==
WKS is usually found in people who have used alcohol chronically. Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome results from thiamine deficiency. It is generally agreed that Wernicke encephalopathy results from severe acute deficiency of [[thiamine]] ([[vitamin B]]<sub>1</sub>), whilst Korsakoff's psychosis is a chronic neurologic [[wikt:sequela|sequela]] of Wernicke encephalopathy. The metabolically active form of thiamine is [[thiamine pyrophosphate]], which plays a major role as a [[cofactor (biochemistry)|cofactor]] or coenzyme in glucose metabolism. The enzymes that are dependent on thiamine pyrophosphate are associated with the [[citric acid cycle]] (also known as the [[Krebs cycle]]), and catalyze the [[pyruvate dehydrogenase|oxidation of pyruvate]], [[α-ketoglutarate]] and [[branched chain amino acids]]. Thus, anything that encourages glucose metabolism will exacerbate an existing clinical or [[sub-clinical]] thiamine deficiency.<ref name=":02" />
It is generally agreed that [[Wernicke encephalopathy|Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome]] results from severe acute deficiency of [[thiamine]] ([[vitamin B]]<sub>1</sub>) whilst Korsakoff's psychosis is a chronic neurologic [[wikt:sequela|sequela]] of Wernicke encephalopathy and is usually found in people who have used [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] chronically. The metabolically active form of thiamine is [[thiamine pyrophosphate]], which plays a major role as a [[cofactor (biochemistry)|cofactor]] or coenzyme in glucose metabolism. The enzymes that are dependent on thiamine pyrophosphate are associated with the [[citric acid cycle]] (also known as the [[Krebs cycle]]), and catalyze the [[pyruvate dehydrogenase|oxidation of pyruvate]], [[α-ketoglutarate]] and [[branched chain amino acids]]. Thus, anything that encourages glucose metabolism will exacerbate an existing clinical or [[sub-clinical]] thiamine deficiency.<ref name="pmid23696956" />


As stated above, Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome in the United States is usually found in malnourished [[chronic alcoholic]]s, though it is also found in patients who undergo prolonged [[intravenous]] (IV) therapy without [[vitamin B]]<sub>1</sub> supplementation, [[gastric bypass|gastric stapling]], [[intensive care unit]] ([[Intensive care unit|ICU]]) stays, [[hunger strikes]], or people with eating disorders. In some regions, physicians have observed thiamine deficiency brought about by severe [[malnutrition]], particularly in diets consisting mainly of [[white rice|polished rice]], which is thiamine-deficient. The resulting nervous system ailment is called [[beriberi]]. In individuals with sub-clinical thiamine deficiency, a large dose of glucose (either as sweet food, etc. or glucose infusion) can precipitate the onset of overt encephalopathy.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Zimitat |first1=Craig |last2=Nixon |first2=Peter F. |title=Glucose loading precipitates acute encephalopathy in thiamin-deficient rats |journal=[[Metabolic Brain Disease]] |volume=14 |issue=1 |pages=1–20 |year=1999 |pmid=10348310 |doi=10.1023/A:1020653312697 |s2cid=19954743 }}</ref><ref name=pmid18034292>{{cite journal |last1=Navarro |first1=Darren |last2=Zwingmann |first2=Claudia |last3=Chatauret |first3=Nicolas |last4=Butterworth |first4=Roger F. |title=Glucose loading precipitates focal lactic acidosis in the vulnerable medial thalamus of thiamine-deficient rats |journal=Metabolic Brain Disease |volume=23 |issue=1 |pages=115–22 |year=2008 |pmid=18034292 |doi=10.1007/s11011-007-9076-z |s2cid=9020059 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Watson |first1=A. J. S. |last2=Walker |first2=J. F. |last3=Tomkin |first3=G. H. |last4=Finn |first4=M. M. R. |last5=Keogh |first5=J. A. B. |title=Acute Wernickes Encephalopathy precipitated by glucose loading |journal=Irish Journal of Medical Science |volume=150 |issue=10 |pages=301–3 |year=1981 |pmid=7319764 |doi=10.1007/BF02938260 |s2cid=23063090 }}</ref>
As stated above, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome in the United States is usually found in malnourished [[chronic alcoholic]]s, though it is also found in patients who undergo prolonged [[intravenous]] (IV) therapy without vitamin B<sub>1</sub> supplementation, [[gastric bypass|gastric stapling]], [[intensive care unit]] (ICU) stays, [[hunger strikes]], or people with eating disorders. In some regions, physicians have observed thiamine deficiency brought about by severe [[malnutrition]], particularly in diets consisting mainly of [[white rice|polished rice]], which is thiamine-deficient. The resulting nervous system ailment is called [[beriberi]]. In individuals with sub-clinical thiamine deficiency, a large dose of glucose (either as sweet food or glucose infusion) can precipitate the onset of overt encephalopathy.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Zimitat |first1=Craig |last2=Nixon |first2=Peter F. |title=Glucose loading precipitates acute encephalopathy in thiamin-deficient rats |journal=[[Metabolic Brain Disease]] |volume=14 |issue=1 |pages=1–20 |year=1999 |pmid=10348310 |doi=10.1023/A:1020653312697 |s2cid=19954743 }}</ref><ref name=pmid18034292>{{cite journal |last1=Navarro |first1=Darren |last2=Zwingmann |first2=Claudia |last3=Chatauret |first3=Nicolas |last4=Butterworth |first4=Roger F. |title=Glucose loading precipitates focal lactic acidosis in the vulnerable medial thalamus of thiamine-deficient rats |journal=Metabolic Brain Disease |volume=23 |issue=1 |pages=115–22 |year=2008 |pmid=18034292 |doi=10.1007/s11011-007-9076-z |s2cid=9020059 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Watson |first1=A. J. S. |last2=Walker |first2=J. F. |last3=Tomkin |first3=G. H. |last4=Finn |first4=M. M. R. |last5=Keogh |first5=J. A. B. |title=Acute Wernickes Encephalopathy precipitated by glucose loading |journal=Irish Journal of Medical Science |volume=150 |issue=10 |pages=301–3 |year=1981 |pmid=7319764 |doi=10.1007/BF02938260 |s2cid=23063090 }}</ref>


Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome in people with chronic alcohol use particularly is associated with [[atrophy]]/[[infarction]] of specific regions of the brain, especially the [[mammillary bodies]]. Other regions include the anterior region of the [[thalamus]] (accounting for amnesic symptoms), the medial dorsal [[thalamus]], the [[basal forebrain]], the median and dorsal [[raphe nuclei]],<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Mann |first1=Karl |last2=Agartz |first2=Ingrid |last3=Harper |first3=Clive |last4=Shoaf |first4=Susan |last5=Rawlings |first5=Robert R. |last6=Momenan |first6=Reza |last7=Hommer |first7=Daniel W. |last8=Pfefferbaum |first8=Adolf |last9=Sullivan |first9=Edith V. |last10=Anton |first10=Raymond F. |last11=Drobes |first11=David J. |last12=George |first12=Mark S. |last13=Bares |first13=Roland |last14=Machulla |first14=Hans-Juergen |last15=Mundle |first15=Goetz |last16=Reimold |first16=Matthias |last17=Heinz |first17=Andreas |title=Neuroimaging in Alcoholism: Ethanol and Brain Damage |journal=Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research |volume=25 |issue=5 Suppl ISBRA |pages=104S–109S |year=2001 |pmid=11391058 |doi=10.1111/j.1530-0277.2001.tb02383.x }}</ref> and the cerebellum.<ref name=Butterworth>{{cite journal |last1=Butterworth |first1=RF |title=Pathophysiology of cerebellar dysfunction in the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=The Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences |volume=20 Suppl 3 |pages=S123–6 |year=1993 |id={{INIST|4778798}} |pmid=8334588 }}</ref>
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome in people with chronic alcohol use particularly is associated with [[atrophy]]/[[infarction]] of specific regions of the brain, especially the [[mammillary bodies]]. Other regions include the anterior region of the [[thalamus]] (accounting for amnesic symptoms), the medial dorsal thalamus, the [[basal forebrain]], the median and dorsal [[raphe nuclei]],<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Mann |first1=Karl |last2=Agartz |first2=Ingrid |last3=Harper |first3=Clive |last4=Shoaf |first4=Susan |last5=Rawlings |first5=Robert R. |last6=Momenan |first6=Reza |last7=Hommer |first7=Daniel W. |last8=Pfefferbaum |first8=Adolf |last9=Sullivan |first9=Edith V. |last10=Anton |first10=Raymond F. |last11=Drobes |first11=David J. |last12=George |first12=Mark S. |last13=Bares |first13=Roland |last14=Machulla |first14=Hans-Juergen |last15=Mundle |first15=Goetz |last16=Reimold |first16=Matthias |last17=Heinz |first17=Andreas |title=Neuroimaging in Alcoholism: Ethanol and Brain Damage |journal=Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research |volume=25 |issue=5 Suppl ISBRA |pages=104S–109S |year=2001 |pmid=11391058 |doi=10.1111/j.1530-0277.2001.tb02383.x }}</ref> and the cerebellum.<ref name=Butterworth>{{cite journal |last1=Butterworth |first1=RF |title=Pathophysiology of cerebellar dysfunction in the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=The Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences |volume=20 |pages=S123–6 |year=1993 |issue=Suppl 3 |doi=10.1017/S0317167100048630 |id={{INIST|4778798}} |pmid=8334588 }}</ref>


One as-yet-unreplicated study has associated susceptibility to this syndrome with a hereditary deficiency of [[transketolase]], an [[enzyme]] that requires thiamine as a coenzyme.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Nixon |first1=Peter F. |last2=Kaczmarek |first2=M. Jan |last3=Tate |first3=Jill |last4=Kerr |first4=Ray A. |last5=Price |first5=John |title=An erythrocyte transketolase isoenzyme pattern associated with the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=European Journal of Clinical Investigation |volume=14 |issue=4 |pages=278–81 |year=1984 |pmid=6434322 |doi=10.1111/j.1365-2362.1984.tb01181.x |s2cid=6006951 }}</ref>
One as-yet-unreplicated study has associated susceptibility to this syndrome with a hereditary deficiency of [[transketolase]], an [[enzyme]] that requires thiamine as a coenzyme.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Nixon |first1=Peter F. |last2=Kaczmarek |first2=M. Jan |last3=Tate |first3=Jill |last4=Kerr |first4=Ray A. |last5=Price |first5=John |title=An erythrocyte transketolase isoenzyme pattern associated with the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=European Journal of Clinical Investigation |volume=14 |issue=4 |pages=278–81 |year=1984 |pmid=6434322 |doi=10.1111/j.1365-2362.1984.tb01181.x |s2cid=6006951 }}</ref>
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The fact that gastrointestinal surgery can lead to the development of WKS was demonstrated in a study that was completed on three patients who recently undergone a [[gastrectomy]]. These patients had developed WKS but were not alcoholics and had never suffered from dietary deprivation. WKS developed between 2 and 20 years after the surgery.<ref name="gastrectomy">{{cite journal |last1=Shimomura |first1=Tatsuo |last2=Mori |first2=Etsuro |last3=Hirono |first3=Nobutsugu |last4=Imamura |first4=Toru |last5=Yamashita |first5=Hikari |title=Development of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome after long intervals following gastrectomy |journal=Archives of Neurology |volume=55 |issue=9 |pages=1242–5 |year=1998 |pmid=9740119 |url=http://archneur.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?volume=55&page=1242 |doi=10.1001/archneur.55.9.1242}}</ref> There were small dietary changes that contributed to the development of WKS but overall the lack of absorption of thiamine from the gastrointestinal tract was the cause. Therefore, it must be ensured that patients who have undergone gastrectomy have a proper education on dietary habits, and carefully monitor their thiamine intake. Additionally, an early diagnosis of WKS, should it develop, is very important.<ref name="gastrectomy" />
The fact that gastrointestinal surgery can lead to the development of WKS was demonstrated in a study that was completed on three patients who recently undergone a [[gastrectomy]]. These patients had developed WKS but were not alcoholics and had never suffered from dietary deprivation. WKS developed between 2 and 20 years after the surgery.<ref name="gastrectomy">{{cite journal |last1=Shimomura |first1=Tatsuo |last2=Mori |first2=Etsuro |last3=Hirono |first3=Nobutsugu |last4=Imamura |first4=Toru |last5=Yamashita |first5=Hikari |title=Development of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome after long intervals following gastrectomy |journal=Archives of Neurology |volume=55 |issue=9 |pages=1242–5 |year=1998 |pmid=9740119 |url=http://archneur.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?volume=55&page=1242 |doi=10.1001/archneur.55.9.1242}}</ref> There were small dietary changes that contributed to the development of WKS but overall the lack of absorption of thiamine from the gastrointestinal tract was the cause. Therefore, it must be ensured that patients who have undergone gastrectomy have a proper education on dietary habits, and carefully monitor their thiamine intake. Additionally, an early diagnosis of WKS, should it develop, is very important.<ref name="gastrectomy" />


===Alcohol–thiamine interactions===
===Alcohol-thiamine interactions===
Strong evidence suggests that ethanol interferes directly with thiamine uptake in the gastrointestinal tract. Ethanol also disrupts thiamine storage in the liver and the transformation of thiamine into its active form.<ref name="Todd, K. G. 1999">{{cite journal |last1=Todd |first1=Kathryn G. |last2=Hazell |first2=Alan S. |last3=Butterworth |first3=Roger F. |title=Alcohol-thiamine interactions: an update on the pathogenesis of Wernicke encephalopathy |journal=Addiction Biology |volume=4 |issue=3 |pages=261–72 |year=1999 |pmid=20575793 |doi=10.1080/13556219971470 |s2cid=38390083 }}</ref> The role of alcohol consumption in the development of WKS has been experimentally confirmed through studies in which rats were subjected to alcohol exposure and lower levels of thiamine through a low-thiamine diet.<ref name="rats">{{cite journal |last1=He |first1=Xiaohua |last2=Sullivan |first2=Edith V |last3=Stankovic |first3=Roger K |last4=Harper |first4=Clive G |last5=Pfefferbaum |first5=Adolf |title=Interaction of Thiamine Deficiency and Voluntary Alcohol Consumption Disrupts Rat Corpus Callosum Ultrastructure |journal=Neuropsychopharmacology |volume=32 |issue=10 |pages=2207–16 |year=2007 |pmid=17299515 |doi=10.1038/sj.npp.1301332 |doi-access=free }}</ref> In particular, studies have demonstrated that clinical signs of the neurological problems that result from thiamine deficiency develop faster in rats that have received alcohol and were also deficient in thiamine than rats who did not receive alcohol.<ref name="rats"/> In another study, it was found that rats that were chronically fed alcohol had significantly lower liver thiamine stores than control rats. This provides an explanation for why alcoholics with [[liver cirrhosis]] have a higher incidence of both thiamine deficiency and WKS.<ref name="Todd, K. G. 1999"/>
Strong evidence suggests that ethanol interferes directly with thiamine uptake in the gastrointestinal tract. Ethanol also disrupts thiamine storage in the liver and the transformation of thiamine into its active form.<ref name="Todd, K. G. 1999">{{cite journal |last1=Todd |first1=Kathryn G. |last2=Hazell |first2=Alan S. |last3=Butterworth |first3=Roger F. |title=Alcohol-thiamine interactions: an update on the pathogenesis of Wernicke encephalopathy |journal=Addiction Biology |volume=4 |issue=3 |pages=261–72 |year=1999 |pmid=20575793 |doi=10.1080/13556219971470 |s2cid=38390083 }}</ref> The role of alcohol consumption in the development of WKS has been experimentally confirmed through studies in which rats were subjected to alcohol exposure and lower levels of thiamine through a low-thiamine diet.<ref name="rats">{{cite journal |last1=He |first1=Xiaohua |last2=Sullivan |first2=Edith V |last3=Stankovic |first3=Roger K |last4=Harper |first4=Clive G |last5=Pfefferbaum |first5=Adolf |title=Interaction of Thiamine Deficiency and Voluntary Alcohol Consumption Disrupts Rat Corpus Callosum Ultrastructure |journal=Neuropsychopharmacology |volume=32 |issue=10 |pages=2207–16 |year=2007 |pmid=17299515 |doi=10.1038/sj.npp.1301332 |doi-access=free }}</ref> In particular, studies have demonstrated that clinical signs of the neurological problems that result from thiamine deficiency develop faster in rats that have received alcohol and were also deficient in thiamine than rats who did not receive alcohol.<ref name="rats"/> In another study, it was found that rats that were chronically fed alcohol had significantly lower liver thiamine stores than control rats. This provides an explanation for why alcoholics with [[liver cirrhosis]] have a higher incidence of both thiamine deficiency and WKS.<ref name="Todd, K. G. 1999"/>


==Pathophysiology==
==Pathophysiology==
The vitamin thiamine also referred to as Vitamin B1, is required by three different enzymes to allow for conversion of ingested nutrients into energy.<ref name=":02">{{Cite journal|last1=Osiezagha|first1=Kenneth|last2=Ali|first2=Shahid|last3=Freeman|first3=C.|last4=Barker|first4=Narviar C.|last5=Jabeen|first5=Shagufta|last6=Maitra|first6=Sarbani|last7=Olagbemiro|first7=Yetunde|last8=Richie|first8=William|last9=Bailey|first9=Rahn K.|date=2013|title=Thiamine Deficiency and Delirium|journal=Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience|volume=10|issue=4|pages=26–32|issn=2158-8333|pmc=3659035|pmid=23696956}}</ref> Thiamine can not be produced in the body and must be obtained through diet and supplementation.<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal|last1=Martin|first1=Peter R.|last2=Singleton|first2=Charles K.|last3=Hiller-Sturmhöfel|first3=Susanne|date=2003|title=The role of thiamine deficiency in alcoholic brain disease|journal=Alcohol Research & Health|volume=27|issue=2|pages=134–142|issn=1535-7414|pmc=6668887|pmid=15303623}}</ref> The duodenum is responsible for absorbing thiamine. The liver can store thiamine for 18 days.<ref name=":02" /> Prolonged and frequent consumption of alcohol causes a decreased ability to absorb thiamine in the [[duodenum]]. Thiamine deficiency is also related to malnutrition from poor diet, impaired use of thiamine by the cells and impaired storage in the liver.<ref name=":1" /> Without thiamine the [[Kreb's cycle|Kreb's Cycle]] enzymes pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH) and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (alpha-KGDH) are impaired.<ref name=":02" /> The impaired functioning of the Kreb's Cycle results in inadequate production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or energy for the cells functioning.<ref name=":02" /> Energy is required by the brain for proper functioning and use of its neurotransmitters. Injury to the brain occurs when neurons that require high amounts of energy from thiamine dependent enzymes are not supplied with enough energy and die.<ref name=":02" />
The vitamin thiamine, also referred to as vitamin B<sub>1</sub>, is required by three different enzymes to allow for conversion of ingested nutrients into energy.<ref name="pmid23696956">{{cite journal|last1=Osiezagha|first1=Kenneth|last2=Ali|first2=Shahid|last3=Freeman|first3=C.|last4=Barker|first4=Narviar C.|last5=Jabeen|first5=Shagufta|last6=Maitra|first6=Sarbani|last7=Olagbemiro|first7=Yetunde|last8=Richie|first8=William|last9=Bailey|first9=Rahn K.|date=2013|title=Thiamine Deficiency and Delirium|journal=Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience|volume=10|issue=4|pages=26–32|issn=2158-8333|pmc=3659035|pmid=23696956}}</ref> Thiamine can not be produced in the body and must be obtained through diet and supplementation.<ref name="pmid15303623">{{cite journal|last1=Martin|first1=Peter R.|last2=Singleton|first2=Charles K.|last3=Hiller-Sturmhöfel|first3=Susanne|date=2003|title=The role of thiamine deficiency in alcoholic brain disease|journal=Alcohol Research & Health|volume=27|issue=2|pages=134–142|issn=1535-7414|pmc=6668887|pmid=15303623}}</ref> The duodenum is responsible for absorbing thiamine. The liver can store thiamine for 18 days.<ref name="pmid23696956" /> Prolonged and frequent consumption of alcohol causes a decreased ability to absorb thiamine in the [[duodenum]]. Thiamine deficiency is also related to malnutrition from poor diet, impaired use of thiamine by the cells and impaired storage in the liver.<ref name="pmid15303623" /> Without thiamine the [[Krebs cycle]] enzymes pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH) and [[oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex|alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase]] (alpha-KGDH) are impaired.<ref name="pmid23696956" /> The impaired functioning of the Krebs cycle results in inadequate production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or energy for the cells functioning.<ref name="pmid23696956" /> Energy is required by the brain for proper functioning and use of its neurotransmitters. Injury to the brain occurs when neurons that require high amounts of energy from thiamine dependent enzymes are not supplied with enough energy and die.<ref name="pmid23696956" />


Brain [[atrophy]] associated with WKS occurs in the following regions of the brain:
Brain [[atrophy]] associated with WKS occurs in the following regions of the brain: the [[mammillary bodies]], the [[thalamus]], the [[periaqueductal grey]], the walls of the [[3rd ventricle]], the floor of the 4th ventricle, the cerebellum, and the [[frontal lobe]]. In addition to the damage seen in these areas there have been reports of damage to [[cerebral cortex|cortex]], although it was noted that this may be due to the direct toxic effects of alcohol as opposed to thiamine deficiency that has been attributed as the underlying cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.<ref name="korsakoff overview" />


# the [[mammillary bodies]],
The amnesia that is associated with this syndrome is a result of the atrophy in the structures of the [[diencephalon]] (the thalamus, [[hypothalamus]] and mammillary bodies), and is similar to [[amnesia]] that is presented as a result of other cases of damage to the [[medial temporal lobe]].<ref name="fMRI WK">{{cite journal |last1=Caulo |first1=M. |title=Functional MRI study of diencephalic amnesia in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=Brain |volume=128 |issue=7 |pages=1584–94 |year=2005 |pmid=15817513 |doi=10.1093/brain/awh496 |doi-access=free }}</ref> It has been argued that the memory impairments can occur as a result of damage along any part of the [[mammillo-thalamic tract]], which explains how WKS can develop in patients with damage exclusively to either the thalamus or the mammillary bodies.<ref name="korsakoff overview"/>
# the [[thalamus]],
# the [[periaqueductal grey]],
# the walls of the [[3rd ventricle]],
# the floor of the 4th ventricle,
# the cerebellum, and
# the [[frontal lobe]].

In addition to the damage seen in these areas there have been reports of damage to [[cerebral cortex|cortex]], although it was noted that this may be due to the direct toxic effects of alcohol as opposed to thiamine deficiency that has been attributed as the underlying cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.<ref name="korsakoff overview" />

The amnesia that is associated with this syndrome is a result of the atrophy in the structures of the [[diencephalon]] (the thalamus, [[hypothalamus]] and mammillary bodies), and is similar to [[amnesia]] that is presented as a result of other cases of damage to the [[medial temporal lobe]].<ref name="fMRI WK">{{cite journal |last1=Caulo |first1=M. |title=Functional MRI study of diencephalic amnesia in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=Brain |volume=128 |issue=7 |pages=1584–94 |year=2005 |pmid=15817513 |doi=10.1093/brain/awh496 |doi-access=free }}</ref> It has been argued that the memory impairments can occur as a result of damage along any part of the [[mammillo-thalamic tract]], which explains how WKS can develop in patients with damage exclusively to either the thalamus or the mammillary bodies.<ref name="korsakoff overview" />


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
Diagnosis of Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome is by clinical impression and can sometimes be confirmed by a formal neuropsychological assessment. Wernicke [[encephalopathy]] typically presents with [[ataxia]] and [[pathologic nystagmus|nystagmus]], and Korsakoff's psychosis with anterograde and retrograde [[amnesia]] and confabulation upon relevant lines of questioning.<ref name=":1" />
Diagnosis of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is by clinical impression and can sometimes be confirmed by a formal neuropsychological assessment. Wernicke [[encephalopathy]] typically presents with [[ataxia]] and [[pathologic nystagmus|nystagmus]], and Korsakoff's psychosis with anterograde and retrograde [[amnesia]] and confabulation upon relevant lines of questioning.<ref name="pmid15303623" />


Frequently, secondary to thiamine deficiency and subsequent cytotoxic edema in Wernicke encephalopathy, patients will have marked degeneration of the [[mammillary bodies]]. Thiamine (vitamin B<sub>1</sub>) is an essential coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism and is also a regulator of osmotic gradient. Its deficiency may cause swelling of the intracellular space and local disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Brain tissue is very sensitive to changes in electrolytes and pressure and edema can be cytotoxic. In Wernicke this occurs specifically in the mammillary bodies, medial thalami, tectal plate, and periaqueductal areas. People with the condition may also exhibit a dislike for sunlight and so may wish to stay indoors with the lights off. The mechanism of this degeneration is unknown, but it supports the current neurological theory that the mammillary bodies play a role in various "memory circuits" within the brain. An example of a memory circuit is the [[Papez circuit]].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}
Frequently, secondary to thiamine deficiency and subsequent cytotoxic edema in Wernicke encephalopathy, patients will have marked degeneration of the [[mammillary bodies]]. Thiamine (vitamin B<sub>1</sub>) is an essential coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism and is also a regulator of osmotic gradient. Its deficiency may cause swelling of the intracellular space and local disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Brain tissue is very sensitive to changes in electrolytes and pressure and edema can be cytotoxic. In Wernicke this occurs specifically in the mammillary bodies, medial thalami, tectal plate, and periaqueductal areas. People with the condition may also exhibit a dislike for sunlight and so may wish to stay indoors with the lights off. The mechanism of this degeneration is unknown, but it supports the current neurological theory that the mammillary bodies play a role in various "memory circuits" within the brain. An example of a memory circuit is the [[Papez circuit]].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}
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<gallery>
<gallery>
File:MRI FLAIR sequence Wernicke Encephalopathy.jpg|Axial MRI FLAIR image showing hyperintense signal in the mesial dorsal thalami, a common finding in Wernicke encephalopathy. This patient was nearly in coma when IV thiamine was started, he responded moderately well but was left with some Korsakoff type deficits.
File:MRI FLAIR sequence Wernicke Encephalopathy.jpg|Axial MRI FLAIR image showing hyperintense signal in the mesial dorsal thalami, a common finding in Wernicke encephalopathy. This patient was nearly in coma when IV thiamine was started, he responded moderately well but was left with some Korsakoff type deficits.
File:MRI DWI sequence showing restricted diffusion in the mesial dorsal thalami.jpg|Axial MRI B=1000 DWI image showing hyperintense signal indicative of restricted diffusion in the mesial dorsal thalami.
File:MRI DWI sequence showing restricted diffusion in the mesial dorsal thalami.jpg|Axial MRI B=1000 DWI image showing hyperintense signal indicative of restricted diffusion in the mesial dorsal thalami
File:MRI FLAIR sequence showing hyperintense signal in the periaqueducal grey matter in Wernicke Encephalopathy.jpg|Axial MRI FLAIR image showing hyperintense signal in the periaqueductal gray matter and tectum of the dorsal midbrain.
File:MRI FLAIR sequence showing hyperintense signal in the periaqueducal grey matter in Wernicke Encephalopathy.jpg|Axial MRI FLAIR image showing hyperintense signal in the periaqueductal gray matter and tectum of the dorsal midbrain
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Prevention==
==Prevention==
As described, Korsakoff syndrome usually follows or accompanies Wernicke encephalopathy. If treated quickly, it may be possible to prevent the development of WKS with thiamine treatments. This treatment is not guaranteed to be effective and the thiamine needs to be administered adequately in both dose and duration. A study on Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome showed that with consistent thiamine treatment there were noticeable improvements in mental status after only 2–3 weeks of therapy.<ref name="Sechi"/> Thus, there is hope that with treatment Wernicke encephalopathy will not necessarily progress to WKS.{{vague|date=November 2020}}
As described, Korsakoff syndrome usually follows or accompanies Wernicke encephalopathy. If treated quickly, it may be possible to prevent the development of WKS with thiamine treatments. This treatment is not guaranteed to be effective and the thiamine needs to be administered adequately in both dose and duration. A study on Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome showed that with consistent thiamine treatment there were noticeable improvements in mental status after only 2–3 weeks of therapy.<ref name="Sechi"/> Thus, there is hope that with treatment Wernicke encephalopathy will not necessarily progress to WKS. <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Oudman |first=Erik |last2=Oey |first2=Misha J. |last3=Batjes |first3=Deirdre |last4=van Dam |first4=Mirjam |last5=van Dorp |first5=Maaike |last6=Postma |first6=Albert |last7=Wijnia |first7=Jan W. |date=2022-12-01 |title=Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome diagnostics and rehabilitation in the post-acute phase |url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2772392522000384 |journal=Addiction Neuroscience |volume=4 |pages=100043 |doi=10.1016/j.addicn.2022.100043 |issn=2772-3925}}</ref>


In order to reduce the risk of developing WKS it is important to limit the intake of alcohol in order to ensure that proper nutrition needs are met. A [[healthy diet]] is imperative for proper nutrition which, in combination with thiamine supplements, may reduce the chance of developing WKS. This prevention method may specifically help heavy drinkers who refuse to or are unable to quit.<ref name=Medline771/>
In order to reduce the risk of developing WKS it is important to limit the intake of alcohol in order to ensure that proper nutrition needs are met. A [[healthy diet]] is imperative for proper nutrition which, in combination with thiamine supplements, may reduce the chance of developing WKS. This prevention method may specifically help heavy drinkers who refuse to or are unable to quit.<ref name=Medline771/>


A number of proposals<ref>Proposals have included:
A number of proposals have been put forth to [[Food fortification|fortify]] alcoholic beverages with thiamine to reduce the incidence of WKS among those heavily abusing alcohol. To date, no such proposals have been enacted.<ref>{{cite journal |url=https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2006/184/12/repeating-history-objections-fortification-bread-and-alcohol-iron-filings-folic |journal=[[The Medical Journal of Australia]] |first=Max |last=Kamien |date=19 June 2006 |title=The repeating history of objections to the fortification of bread and alcohol: from iron filings to folic acid |access-date=30 December 2018 |volume=184 |issue=12 |pages=638–640 |doi=10.5694/j.1326-5377.2006.tb00422.x |pmid=16803445 |s2cid=6725983 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1979/02/12/archives/put-thiamine-in-liquor.html |title=Put Thiamine in Liquor |first=Brandon |last=Centerwall |date=12 February 1979 |work=[[The New York Times]] |access-date=30 December 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Binns |first1=Colin W. |author-link=Colin Binns |last2=Carruthers |first2=Susan J. |last3=Howat |first3=Peter A. |date=September 1989 |title=Thiamin in beer: a health promotion perspective |journal=Community Health Studies |volume=XIII |pages=301–5 |doi=10.1111/j.1753-6405.1989.tb00210.x |pmid=2605903 |number=3}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2002/nov/18/drugsandalcohol.scottishparliament |date=18 November 2002 |first=James |last=Meikle |work=[[The Guardian]] |title=A pint of best and be generous with the B1, please landlord |access-date=30 December 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |doi=10.3109/00048678609158858 |pmid=3460583 |first=Robert |last=Finlay-Jones |year=1986 |title=Should Thiamine Be Added to Beer? |journal=Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry |volume=20 |issue=1 |pages=3–6 |s2cid=39649221 }}</ref>{{citation overkill|date=November 2020}}
* {{cite journal |url=https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2006/184/12/repeating-history-objections-fortification-bread-and-alcohol-iron-filings-folic |journal=[[The Medical Journal of Australia]] |first=Max |last=Kamien |date=June 19, 2006 |title=The repeating history of objections to the fortification of bread and alcohol: from iron filings to folic acid |access-date=December 30, 2018 |volume=184 |issue=12 |pages=638–640 |doi=10.5694/j.1326-5377.2006.tb00422.x |pmid=16803445 |s2cid=6725983 }}
* {{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1979/02/12/archives/put-thiamine-in-liquor.html |title=Put Thiamine in Liquor |first=Brandon |last=Centerwall |date=February 12, 1979 |work=[[The New York Times]] |access-date=December 30, 2018 }}
* {{cite journal |last1=Binns |first1=Colin W. |author-link=Colin Binns |last2=Carruthers |first2=Susan J. |last3=Howat |first3=Peter A. |date=September 1989 |title=Thiamin in beer: a health promotion perspective |journal=Community Health Studies |volume=XIII |pages=301–5 |doi=10.1111/j.1753-6405.1989.tb00210.x |pmid=2605903 |number=3}}
* {{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/society/2002/nov/18/drugsandalcohol.scottishparliament |date=November 18, 2002 |first=James |last=Meikle |work=[[The Guardian]] |title=A pint of best and be generous with the B1, please landlord |access-date=December 30, 2018 }}
* {{cite journal |doi=10.3109/00048678609158858 |pmid=3460583 |first=Robert |last=Finlay-Jones |year=1986 |title=Should Thiamine Be Added to Beer? |journal=Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry |volume=20 |issue=1 |pages=3–6 |s2cid=39649221 |doi-access=free }}</ref> have been put forth to [[Food fortification|fortify]] alcoholic beverages with thiamine to reduce the incidence of WKS among those heavily abusing alcohol. To date, no such proposals have been enacted.


Daily recommendations of thiamine requirements are 0.66&nbsp;mg per {{convert|2000|kcal|kJ|order=flip|abbr=off}} of [[food energy]] intake – approximately equivalent to 1.2&nbsp;mg for men and 1.1&nbsp;mg for women.<ref name=":0">{{Cite journal|last1=Osiezagha|first1=Kenneth|last2=Ali|first2=Shahid|last3=Freeman|first3=C.|last4=Barker|first4=Narviar C.|last5=Jabeen|first5=Shagufta|last6=Maitra|first6=Sarbani|last7=Olagbemiro|first7=Yetunde|last8=Richie|first8=William|last9=Bailey|first9=Rahn K.|date=April 2013|title=Thiamine Deficiency and Delirium|journal=Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience|volume=10|issue=4|pages=26–32|issn=2158-8333|pmc=3659035|pmid=23696956}}</ref>
Daily recommendations of thiamine requirements are 0.66&nbsp;mg per {{convert|2000|kcal|kJ|order=flip|abbr=off}} of [[food energy]] intake—approximately equivalent to 1.2&nbsp;mg for men and 1.1&nbsp;mg for women.<ref name="pmid23696956"/>


==Treatment==
==Treatment==


The onset of Wernicke encephalopathy is considered a medical emergency, and thus thiamine administration should be initiated immediately when the disease is suspected.<ref name="Sechi"/> Prompt administration of thiamine to patients with Wernicke encephalopathy can prevent the disorder from developing into Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome, or reduce its severity. Treatment can also reduce the progression of the deficits caused by WKS, but will not completely reverse existing deficits. WKS will continue to be present, at least partially, in 80% of patients.<ref name="treatment">{{cite journal |last1=Victor |first1=M |last2=Adams |first2=RD |last3=Collins |first3=GH |title=The Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. A clinical and pathological study of 245 patients, 82 with post-mortem examinations |journal=Contemporary Neurology Series |volume=7 |pages=1–206 |year=1971 |pmid=5162155 }}</ref> Patients with WE should be given a minimum dose of 500&nbsp;mg of [[thiamine hydrochloride]], delivered by [[intravenous therapy|infusion]] over a 30-minute period for two to three days. If no response is seen then treatment should be discontinued but for those patients that do respond, treatment should be continued with a 250&nbsp;mg dose delivered [[intravenously]] or [[intramuscularly]] for three to five days unless the patient stops improving. Such prompt administration of thiamine may be a life-saving measure.<ref name="Sechi"/> [[Banana bag]]s, a bag of [[intravenous]] fluids containing vitamins and minerals, is one means of treatment.<ref name=PPMHP>{{cite book|title=Principles of Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Professionals|author1=Jeffrey E Kelsey |author2=D Jeffrey Newport |author3=Charles B Nemeroff |name-list-style=amp |chapter=Alcohol Use Disorders|pages=196–197|publisher=Wiley-Interscience|year=2006|isbn= 978-0-471-79462-2}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Introduction to Emergency Medicine|editor1=Elizabeth Mitchell |editor2=Ron Medzon |publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins|year=2005|isbn= 978-0-7817-3200-0|chapter=Acute and Chronic Alcohol Intoxication|author1=Merle A. Carter |author2=Edward Bernstein |name-list-style=amp |page=272}}</ref>
The onset of Wernicke encephalopathy is considered a medical emergency.<ref name="Sechi"/> Prompt administration of thiamine can prevent the disorder from developing into Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, or reduce its severity. Treatment can also reduce the progression of the deficits caused by WKS, but will not completely reverse existing deficits. WKS will continue to be present, at least partially, in 80% of patients.<ref name="treatment">{{cite journal |last1=Victor |first1=M |last2=Adams |first2=RD |last3=Collins |first3=GH |title=The Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. A clinical and pathological study of 245 patients, 82 with post-mortem examinations |journal=Contemporary Neurology Series |volume=7 |pages=1–206 |year=1971 |pmid=5162155 }}</ref> [[Banana bag]]s, a bag of [[intravenous]] fluids containing vitamins and minerals, may be used as a treatment.<ref name=PPMHP>{{cite book|title=Principles of Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Professionals|author1=Jeffrey E Kelsey |author2=D Jeffrey Newport |author3=Charles B Nemeroff |chapter=Alcohol Use Disorders|pages=196–197|publisher=Wiley-Interscience|year=2006|isbn= 978-0-471-79462-2}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Introduction to Emergency Medicine|editor1=Elizabeth Mitchell |editor2=Ron Medzon |publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins|year=2005|isbn= 978-0-7817-3200-0|chapter=Acute and Chronic Alcohol Intoxication|author1=Merle A. Carter |author2=Edward Bernstein |page=272}}</ref>


==Epidemiology==
==Epidemiology==
WKS occurs more frequently in men than women and has the highest prevalence in the ages 55–65. Approximately 71% are unmarried.<ref name=":2">{{Cite journal|last1=Dam|first1=Mirjam Johanna|last2=Meijel|first2=Berno|last3=Postma|first3=Albert|last4=Oudman|first4=Erik|date=2020-01-15|title=Health problems and care needs in patients with Korsakoff's syndrome: A systematic review|journal=Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing|volume=27|issue=4|language=en|pages=460–481|doi=10.1111/jpm.12587|pmid=31876326|issn=1351-0126|doi-access=free}}</ref>
WKS occurs more frequently in men than women and has the highest prevalence in the ages 55–65. Approximately 71% are unmarried.<ref name="pmid31876326">{{cite journal|last1=Dam|first1=Mirjam Johanna|last2=Meijel|first2=Berno|last3=Postma|first3=Albert|last4=Oudman|first4=Erik|date=January 15, 2020|title=Health problems and care needs in patients with Korsakoff's syndrome: A systematic review|journal=Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing|volume=27|issue=4|language=en|pages=460–481|doi=10.1111/jpm.12587|pmid=31876326|issn=1351-0126|doi-access=free}}</ref>


Internationally, the prevalence rates of WKS are relatively standard, being anywhere between zero and two percent. Despite this, specific sub-populations seem to have higher prevalence rates including people who are homeless, older individuals (especially those living alone or in isolation), and psychiatric inpatients.<ref name="EMedicine288379">{{EMedicine|article|288379|Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome}}</ref> Additionally, studies show that prevalence is not connected to alcohol consumption [[per capita]]. For example, in France, a country that is well known for its consumption and production of wine, prevalence was only 0.4% in 1994, while Australia had a prevalence of 2.8%.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Harper |first1=Clive |last2=Fornes |first2=Paul |last3=Duyckaerts |first3=Charles |last4=Lecomte |first4=Dominique |last5=Hauw |first5=Jean-Jacques |title=An international perspective on the prevalence of the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=Metabolic Brain Disease |volume=10 |issue=1 |pages=17–24 |year=1995 |pmid=7596325 |doi=10.1007/BF01991779 |s2cid=9751459 }}</ref>
Internationally, the prevalence rates of WKS are relatively standard, being anywhere between zero and two percent. Despite this, specific sub-populations seem to have higher prevalence rates including people who are homeless, older individuals (especially those living alone or in isolation), and psychiatric inpatients.<ref name="EMedicine288379">{{EMedicine|article|288379|Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome}}</ref> Additionally, studies show that prevalence is not connected to alcohol consumption [[per capita]]. For example, in France, a country that is well known for its consumption and production of wine, prevalence was only 0.4% in 1994, while Australia had a prevalence of 2.8%.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Harper |first1=Clive |last2=Fornes |first2=Paul |last3=Duyckaerts |first3=Charles |last4=Lecomte |first4=Dominique |last5=Hauw |first5=Jean-Jacques |title=An international perspective on the prevalence of the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome |journal=Metabolic Brain Disease |volume=10 |issue=1 |pages=17–24 |year=1995 |pmid=7596325 |doi=10.1007/BF01991779 |s2cid=9751459 }}</ref>
Line 121: Line 137:


===Korsakoff syndrome===
===Korsakoff syndrome===
[[Sergei Korsakoff]] was a Russian physician after whom the disease "Korsakoff's syndrome" was named. In the late 1800s Korsakoff was studying long-term alcoholic patients and began to notice a decline in their memory function.<ref name=EMedicine288379/> At the 13th [[International Medical Congress]] in Moscow in 1897, Korsakoff presented a report called: ''"On a special form of mental illness combined with degenerative polyneuritis".'' After the presentation of this report the term "Korsakoff's syndrome" was coined.<ref name="korsakoff overview">Kyoko Konishi. (2009) The Cognitive Profile of Elderly Korsakoff's Syndrome Patients.{{page needed|date=July 2015}}</ref>
[[Sergei Korsakoff]] was a Russian physician after whom the disease "Korsakoff's syndrome" was named. In the late 1800s Korsakoff was studying long-term alcoholic patients and began to notice a decline in their memory function.<ref name=EMedicine288379/> At the 13th [[International Medical Congress]] in Moscow in 1897, Korsakoff presented a report called: "On a special form of mental illness combined with degenerative polyneuritis". After the presentation of this report the term "Korsakoff's syndrome" was coined.<ref name="korsakoff overview">Kyoko Konishi. (2009) The Cognitive Profile of Elderly Korsakoff's Syndrome Patients.{{page needed|date=July 2015}}</ref>


Although WE and AKS were discovered separately, these two syndromes are usually referred to under one name, Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome, due to the fact that they are part of the same cause and because the onset of AKS usually follows WE if left untreated.{{citation needed|date=November 2020}}
Although WE and AKS were discovered separately, these two syndromes are usually referred to under one name, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, due to the fact that they are part of the same cause and because the onset of AKS usually follows WE if left untreated.{{citation needed|date=November 2020}}


==Society and culture==
==Society and culture==
The British neurologist [[Oliver Sacks]] describes case histories of some of his patients with the syndrome in the book ''[[The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat]]'' (1985).{{citation needed|date=August 2021}}
The British neurologist [[Oliver Sacks]] describes case histories of some of his patients with the syndrome in the book ''[[The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat]]'' (1985).
<ref>{{Cite book|title=The man who mistook his wife for a hat and other clinical tales|last=Sacks|first=Oliver 1933-2015 |date=1985|publisher=Summit Books|year=1985|location=New York}}</ref>


Frontman and lead vocalist of the hard rock band [[Breaking Benjamin]], [[Benjamin Burnley]], is well known to be living with Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome due to his past alcoholism. He has written multiple songs about addiction and his experiences with alcohol, with many of such songs being found on the band's 2009 album ''[[Dear Agony]]'' as it was the first album Burnley had written and recorded completely sober.{{citation needed|date=August 2021}}
Frontman and lead vocalist of the hard rock band [[Breaking Benjamin]], [[Benjamin Burnley]], is well known to be living with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome due to his past alcoholism. He has written multiple songs about addiction and his experiences with alcohol, with many of such songs being found on the band's 2009 album ''[[Dear Agony]]'' as it was the first album Burnley had written and recorded completely sober. <ref> Lello, Michael "Breaking the Silence" Archived 2010-02-19 at the Wayback Machine The Weekender (September 15, 2009). Retrieved on 2-09-10.</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
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[[Category:Rare syndromes]]
[[Category:Rare syndromes]]
[[Category:Substance-related disorders]]
[[Category:Substance-related disorders]]
[[es:Síndrome de Wernicke-Korsakoff]]

Latest revision as of 04:31, 2 December 2024

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
Other namesKorsakoff's psychosis, cerebral beriberi,[1] alcoholic encephalopathy,[2] "wet brain"[3]
Thiamine
SpecialtyPsychiatry, neurology

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is the combined presence of Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) and alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome (AKS [clarification needed]). Due to the close relationship between these two disorders, people with either are usually diagnosed with WKS as a single syndrome. It mainly causes vision changes, ataxia and impaired memory.[2]

The cause of the disorder is thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. This can occur due to Wernicke encephalopathy, eating disorders, malnutrition, and alcohol abuse. These disorders may manifest together or separately. WKS is usually secondary to prolonged alcohol abuse.

Wernicke encephalopathy and WKS are most commonly seen in people with an alcohol use disorder. Failure in diagnosis of WE and thus treatment of the disease leads to death in approximately 20% of cases, while 75% are left with permanent brain damage associated with WKS.[4] Of those affected, 25% require long-term institutionalization in order to receive effective care.[4][5]

Signs and symptoms

[edit]

The syndrome is a combined manifestation of two namesake disorders, Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome. It involves an acute Wernicke-encephalopathy phase, followed by the development of a Korsakoff syndrome phase.[6]

Wernicke encephalopathy

[edit]

WE is characterized by the presence of a triad of symptoms:[7]

  1. Ocular disturbances (ophthalmoplegia)
  2. Changes in mental state (confusion)
  3. Unsteady stance and gait (ataxia)

This triad of symptoms results from a deficiency in vitamin B1 which is an essential coenzyme. The aforementioned changes in mental state occur in approximately 82% of patients' symptoms which range from confusion, apathy, inability to concentrate, and a decrease in awareness of the immediate situation they are in. If left untreated, WE can lead to coma or death. In about 29% of patients, ocular disturbances consist of nystagmus and paralysis of the lateral rectus muscles or other muscles in the eye. A smaller percentage of patients experience a decrease in reaction time of the pupils to light stimuli and swelling of the optic disc which may be accompanied by retinal hemorrhage. Finally, the symptoms involving stance and gait occur in about 23% of patients and result from dysfunction in the cerebellum and vestibular system. Other symptoms that have been present in cases of WE are stupor, low blood pressure (hypotension), elevated heart rate (tachycardia), as well as hypothermia, epileptic seizures and a progressive loss of hearing.[7]

About 19% of patients have none of the symptoms in the classic triad at first diagnosis of WE; however, usually one or more of the symptoms develops later as the disease progresses.[7]

Korsakoff syndrome

[edit]

The DSM-5 classifies Korsakoff syndrome under Substance/Medication-Induced Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorders, specifically alcohol-induced amnestic confabulatory.[8] The diagnostic criteria defined as necessary for diagnosis includes prominent amnesia, forgetting quickly, and difficulty learning. Presence of thiamine deficient encephalopathy can occur in conjunction with these symptoms.[8]

Despite the assertion that alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome must be caused by the use of alcohol, there have been several cases where it has developed from other instances of thiamine deficiency resulting from gross malnutrition due to conditions such as stomach cancer, anorexia nervosa, and gastrectomy.[9]

Cognitive effects

[edit]

Several cases have been documented where Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome has been seen on a large scale. In 1947, 52 cases of WKS were documented in a prisoner of war hospital in Singapore where the prisoners' diets included less than 1 mg of thiamine per day. Such cases provide an opportunity to gain an understanding of what effects this syndrome has on cognition. In this particular case, cognitive symptoms included insomnia, anxiety, difficulties in concentration, loss of memory for the immediate past, and gradual degeneration of mental state; consisting of confusion, confabulation, and hallucinations.[4] In other cases of WKS, cognitive effects such as severely disrupted speech, giddiness, and heavy-headedness have been documented. In addition to this, it has been noted that some patients displayed an inability to focus, and the inability of others to catch patients' attention.[10]

In a study conducted in 2003 by Brand et al. on the cognitive effects of WKS, the researchers used a neuropsychological test battery which included tests of intelligence, speed of information processing, memory, executive function and cognitive estimation. They found that subjects with WKS showed impairments in all aspects of this test battery but most noticeably, on the cognitive estimation tasks. This task required subjects to estimate a physical quality such as size, weight, quantity or time (e.g. What is the average length of a shower?) of a particular item. Patients with WKS performed worse than normal control participants on all of the tasks in this category. The patients found estimations involving time to be the most difficult, whereas quantity was the easiest estimation to make. Additionally, the study included a category for classifying "bizarre" answers, which included any answer that was far outside of the normal range of expected responses. WKS patients did give answers that could fall into such a category, such as 15 seconds or 1 hour for the estimated length of a shower, or 4 kg or 15 tonnes as the weight of a car.[11]

Memory deficits

[edit]

The amnesic symptoms of WKS include both retrograde and anterograde amnesia.[6] The retrograde deficit has been demonstrated through an inability of WKS patients to recall or recognize information for recent public events. The anterograde memory loss is demonstrated through deficits in tasks that involve encoding and then recalling lists of words and faces, as well as semantic learning tasks. WKS patients have also demonstrated difficulties in perseveration as evidenced by a deficit in performance on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test.[6] The retrograde amnesia that accompanies WKS can extend as far back as twenty to thirty years, and there is generally a temporal gradient seen, where earlier memories are recalled better than more recent memories.[12] It has been widely accepted that the critical structures that lead to the memory impairment in WKS are the mammillary bodies, and the thalamic regions.[13] Despite the aforementioned memory deficits, non-declarative memory functions appear to be intact in WKS patients. This has been demonstrated through measures that assess perceptual priming.[6]

Other studies have shown deficits in recognition memory and stimulus-reward associative functions in patients with WKS.[13] The deficit in stimulus-reward functions was demonstrated by Oscar-Berman and Pulaski who presented patients with reinforcements for certain stimuli but not others, and then required the patients to distinguish the rewarded stimuli from the non-rewarded stimuli. WKS patients displayed significant deficits in this task. The researchers were also successful in displaying a deficit in recognition memory by having patients make a yes/no decision as to whether a stimulus was familiar (previously seen) or novel (not previously seen). The patients in this study also showed a significant deficit in their ability to perform this task.[13]

Confabulation

[edit]

People with WKS often show confabulation, spontaneous confabulation being seen more frequently than provoked confabulation.[14] Spontaneous confabulations refer to incorrect memories that the patient holds to be true, and may act on, arising spontaneously without any provocation. Provoked confabulations can occur when a patient is cued to give a response, this may occur in test settings. The spontaneous confabulations viewed in WKS are thought to be produced by an impairment in source memory, where they are unable to remember the spatial and contextual information for an event, and thus may use irrelevant or old memory traces to fill in for the information that they cannot access. It has also been suggested that this behaviour may be due to executive dysfunction where they are unable to inhibit incorrect memories or because they are unable to shift their attention away from an incorrect response.[14]

Causes

[edit]

It is generally agreed that Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome results from severe acute deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1) whilst Korsakoff's psychosis is a chronic neurologic sequela of Wernicke encephalopathy and is usually found in people who have used alcohol chronically. The metabolically active form of thiamine is thiamine pyrophosphate, which plays a major role as a cofactor or coenzyme in glucose metabolism. The enzymes that are dependent on thiamine pyrophosphate are associated with the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle), and catalyze the oxidation of pyruvate, α-ketoglutarate and branched chain amino acids. Thus, anything that encourages glucose metabolism will exacerbate an existing clinical or sub-clinical thiamine deficiency.[15]

As stated above, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome in the United States is usually found in malnourished chronic alcoholics, though it is also found in patients who undergo prolonged intravenous (IV) therapy without vitamin B1 supplementation, gastric stapling, intensive care unit (ICU) stays, hunger strikes, or people with eating disorders. In some regions, physicians have observed thiamine deficiency brought about by severe malnutrition, particularly in diets consisting mainly of polished rice, which is thiamine-deficient. The resulting nervous system ailment is called beriberi. In individuals with sub-clinical thiamine deficiency, a large dose of glucose (either as sweet food or glucose infusion) can precipitate the onset of overt encephalopathy.[16][17][18]

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome in people with chronic alcohol use particularly is associated with atrophy/infarction of specific regions of the brain, especially the mammillary bodies. Other regions include the anterior region of the thalamus (accounting for amnesic symptoms), the medial dorsal thalamus, the basal forebrain, the median and dorsal raphe nuclei,[19] and the cerebellum.[20]

One as-yet-unreplicated study has associated susceptibility to this syndrome with a hereditary deficiency of transketolase, an enzyme that requires thiamine as a coenzyme.[21]

Post-gastrectomy

[edit]

The fact that gastrointestinal surgery can lead to the development of WKS was demonstrated in a study that was completed on three patients who recently undergone a gastrectomy. These patients had developed WKS but were not alcoholics and had never suffered from dietary deprivation. WKS developed between 2 and 20 years after the surgery.[22] There were small dietary changes that contributed to the development of WKS but overall the lack of absorption of thiamine from the gastrointestinal tract was the cause. Therefore, it must be ensured that patients who have undergone gastrectomy have a proper education on dietary habits, and carefully monitor their thiamine intake. Additionally, an early diagnosis of WKS, should it develop, is very important.[22]

Alcohol-thiamine interactions

[edit]

Strong evidence suggests that ethanol interferes directly with thiamine uptake in the gastrointestinal tract. Ethanol also disrupts thiamine storage in the liver and the transformation of thiamine into its active form.[23] The role of alcohol consumption in the development of WKS has been experimentally confirmed through studies in which rats were subjected to alcohol exposure and lower levels of thiamine through a low-thiamine diet.[24] In particular, studies have demonstrated that clinical signs of the neurological problems that result from thiamine deficiency develop faster in rats that have received alcohol and were also deficient in thiamine than rats who did not receive alcohol.[24] In another study, it was found that rats that were chronically fed alcohol had significantly lower liver thiamine stores than control rats. This provides an explanation for why alcoholics with liver cirrhosis have a higher incidence of both thiamine deficiency and WKS.[23]

Pathophysiology

[edit]

The vitamin thiamine, also referred to as vitamin B1, is required by three different enzymes to allow for conversion of ingested nutrients into energy.[15] Thiamine can not be produced in the body and must be obtained through diet and supplementation.[25] The duodenum is responsible for absorbing thiamine. The liver can store thiamine for 18 days.[15] Prolonged and frequent consumption of alcohol causes a decreased ability to absorb thiamine in the duodenum. Thiamine deficiency is also related to malnutrition from poor diet, impaired use of thiamine by the cells and impaired storage in the liver.[25] Without thiamine the Krebs cycle enzymes pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH) and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (alpha-KGDH) are impaired.[15] The impaired functioning of the Krebs cycle results in inadequate production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or energy for the cells functioning.[15] Energy is required by the brain for proper functioning and use of its neurotransmitters. Injury to the brain occurs when neurons that require high amounts of energy from thiamine dependent enzymes are not supplied with enough energy and die.[15]

Brain atrophy associated with WKS occurs in the following regions of the brain:

  1. the mammillary bodies,
  2. the thalamus,
  3. the periaqueductal grey,
  4. the walls of the 3rd ventricle,
  5. the floor of the 4th ventricle,
  6. the cerebellum, and
  7. the frontal lobe.

In addition to the damage seen in these areas there have been reports of damage to cortex, although it was noted that this may be due to the direct toxic effects of alcohol as opposed to thiamine deficiency that has been attributed as the underlying cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.[26]

The amnesia that is associated with this syndrome is a result of the atrophy in the structures of the diencephalon (the thalamus, hypothalamus and mammillary bodies), and is similar to amnesia that is presented as a result of other cases of damage to the medial temporal lobe.[27] It has been argued that the memory impairments can occur as a result of damage along any part of the mammillo-thalamic tract, which explains how WKS can develop in patients with damage exclusively to either the thalamus or the mammillary bodies.[26]

Diagnosis

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Diagnosis of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is by clinical impression and can sometimes be confirmed by a formal neuropsychological assessment. Wernicke encephalopathy typically presents with ataxia and nystagmus, and Korsakoff's psychosis with anterograde and retrograde amnesia and confabulation upon relevant lines of questioning.[25]

Frequently, secondary to thiamine deficiency and subsequent cytotoxic edema in Wernicke encephalopathy, patients will have marked degeneration of the mammillary bodies. Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism and is also a regulator of osmotic gradient. Its deficiency may cause swelling of the intracellular space and local disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Brain tissue is very sensitive to changes in electrolytes and pressure and edema can be cytotoxic. In Wernicke this occurs specifically in the mammillary bodies, medial thalami, tectal plate, and periaqueductal areas. People with the condition may also exhibit a dislike for sunlight and so may wish to stay indoors with the lights off. The mechanism of this degeneration is unknown, but it supports the current neurological theory that the mammillary bodies play a role in various "memory circuits" within the brain. An example of a memory circuit is the Papez circuit.[citation needed]

Prevention

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As described, Korsakoff syndrome usually follows or accompanies Wernicke encephalopathy. If treated quickly, it may be possible to prevent the development of WKS with thiamine treatments. This treatment is not guaranteed to be effective and the thiamine needs to be administered adequately in both dose and duration. A study on Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome showed that with consistent thiamine treatment there were noticeable improvements in mental status after only 2–3 weeks of therapy.[7] Thus, there is hope that with treatment Wernicke encephalopathy will not necessarily progress to WKS. [28]

In order to reduce the risk of developing WKS it is important to limit the intake of alcohol in order to ensure that proper nutrition needs are met. A healthy diet is imperative for proper nutrition which, in combination with thiamine supplements, may reduce the chance of developing WKS. This prevention method may specifically help heavy drinkers who refuse to or are unable to quit.[2]

A number of proposals[29] have been put forth to fortify alcoholic beverages with thiamine to reduce the incidence of WKS among those heavily abusing alcohol. To date, no such proposals have been enacted.

Daily recommendations of thiamine requirements are 0.66 mg per 8,400 kilojoules (2,000 kilocalories) of food energy intake—approximately equivalent to 1.2 mg for men and 1.1 mg for women.[15]

Treatment

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The onset of Wernicke encephalopathy is considered a medical emergency.[7] Prompt administration of thiamine can prevent the disorder from developing into Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, or reduce its severity. Treatment can also reduce the progression of the deficits caused by WKS, but will not completely reverse existing deficits. WKS will continue to be present, at least partially, in 80% of patients.[30] Banana bags, a bag of intravenous fluids containing vitamins and minerals, may be used as a treatment.[31][32]

Epidemiology

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WKS occurs more frequently in men than women and has the highest prevalence in the ages 55–65. Approximately 71% are unmarried.[5]

Internationally, the prevalence rates of WKS are relatively standard, being anywhere between zero and two percent. Despite this, specific sub-populations seem to have higher prevalence rates including people who are homeless, older individuals (especially those living alone or in isolation), and psychiatric inpatients.[33] Additionally, studies show that prevalence is not connected to alcohol consumption per capita. For example, in France, a country that is well known for its consumption and production of wine, prevalence was only 0.4% in 1994, while Australia had a prevalence of 2.8%.[34]

History

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Wernicke encephalopathy

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Carl Wernicke discovered Wernicke encephalopathy in 1881. His first diagnosis noted symptoms including paralyzed eye movements, ataxia, and mental confusion. Also noticed were hemorrhages in the gray matter around the third and fourth ventricles and the cerebral aqueduct. Brain atrophy was only found upon post-mortem autopsy. Wernicke believed these hemorrhages were due to inflammation and thus the disease was named polioencephalitis haemorrhagica superior. Later, it was found that Wernicke encephalopathy and alcoholic Korsakoff syndrome are products of the same cause.[33]

Korsakoff syndrome

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Sergei Korsakoff was a Russian physician after whom the disease "Korsakoff's syndrome" was named. In the late 1800s Korsakoff was studying long-term alcoholic patients and began to notice a decline in their memory function.[33] At the 13th International Medical Congress in Moscow in 1897, Korsakoff presented a report called: "On a special form of mental illness combined with degenerative polyneuritis". After the presentation of this report the term "Korsakoff's syndrome" was coined.[26]

Although WE and AKS were discovered separately, these two syndromes are usually referred to under one name, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, due to the fact that they are part of the same cause and because the onset of AKS usually follows WE if left untreated.[citation needed]

Society and culture

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The British neurologist Oliver Sacks describes case histories of some of his patients with the syndrome in the book The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat (1985). [35]

Frontman and lead vocalist of the hard rock band Breaking Benjamin, Benjamin Burnley, is well known to be living with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome due to his past alcoholism. He has written multiple songs about addiction and his experiences with alcohol, with many of such songs being found on the band's 2009 album Dear Agony as it was the first album Burnley had written and recorded completely sober. [36]

See also

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References

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  2. ^ a b c MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
  3. ^ Millichap, J. Gordon (August 4, 2013). Neurological Syndromes: A Clinical Guide to Symptoms and Diagnosis. Springer Science & Business Media. ISBN 978-1-4614-7786-0.
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  5. ^ a b Dam, Mirjam Johanna; Meijel, Berno; Postma, Albert; Oudman, Erik (January 15, 2020). "Health problems and care needs in patients with Korsakoff's syndrome: A systematic review". Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. 27 (4): 460–481. doi:10.1111/jpm.12587. ISSN 1351-0126. PMID 31876326.
  6. ^ a b c d Vetreno, Ryan Peter (2011). Thiamine deficiency-induced neurodegeneration and neurogenesis (PhD Thesis). Binghamton University. ISBN 978-1-124-75696-7. OCLC 781626781.[page needed]
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  35. ^ Sacks, Oliver 1933-2015 (1985). The man who mistook his wife for a hat and other clinical tales. New York: Summit Books.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: date and year (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  36. ^ Lello, Michael "Breaking the Silence" Archived 2010-02-19 at the Wayback Machine The Weekender (September 15, 2009). Retrieved on 2-09-10.
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