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This page shows you the latest news and research items in this category.

Marchiafava-Bignami disease: a rare entity with a poor outcome
A doença de Marchiafava-Bignami é uma entidade rara, caracterizada por uma degeneração primária do corpo caloso, associada com o consumo crônico do etanol. A doença pode, ocasionalmente, ocorrer em pacientes não etilistas cronicamente desnutridos. Uma deficiência de vitaminas do complexo B é considerada como a hipótese etiopatogênica principal, uma vez que muitos pacientes obtiveram uma melhora após a administração desses compostos. Algumas vezes, entretanto, tal resposta terapêutica não foi observada. O diagnóstico definitivo da doença de Marchiafava-Bignami pode ser problemático e depende das caracter...
Source: Revista Brasileira de Terapia Intensiva - May 11, 2013 Category: Intensive Care Source Type: research

Teaching NeuroImages: Wernicke encephalopathy: Diagnostically deceptive but treatable
A 54-year-old woman with 4 months of vomiting after gastric fundoplication presented with confusion, generalized weakness, anterograde amnesia, and ophthalmoplegia. Brain MRI showed hyperintensity in the posteromedial thalami (figure, A) and periaqueductal area (figure, B). Serum thiamine was 22 nmol/L (normal 70–180 nmol/L). Supplementation resulted in rapid improvement of ophthalmoplegia but slow improvement of confusion. Anterograde amnesia persisted despite 2 weeks of supplementation. (Source: Neurology)
Source: Neurology - February 25, 2013 Category: Neurology Authors: Cerejo, R., Newey, C., Stillman, M. Tags: MRI, All Clinical Neurology, All Medical/Systemic disease, Nutritional RESIDENT AND FELLOW SECTION Source Type: research

Shoshin Beriberi Heralding Thiamine Deficiency as a Mimic of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (P01.031)
CONCLUSIONS: A high index of suspicion for thiamine deficiency in patients presenting with progressive neuropathy is important as there is significant overlap with GBS. Development of hypotension, tachycardia, lactic acidosis, mental status changes, or extraocular muscle paresis in cases of possible GBS should prompt consideration of thiamine deficiency.Disclosure: Dr. Panara has nothing to disclose. Dr. Arnold has nothing to disclose. (Source: Neurology)
Source: Neurology - February 14, 2013 Category: Neurology Authors: Panara, R., Arnold, W. Tags: P01 Neurocritical Care: Clinical Neurophysiology/Therapeutics Source Type: research

Are brain and heart tissue prone to the development of thiamine deficiency?
Abstract: Thiamine deficiency is a continuing problem leading to beriberi and Wernicke's encephalopathy. The symptoms of thiamine deficiency develop in the heart, brain and neuronal tissue. Yet, it is unclear how rapid thiamine deficiency develops and which organs are prone to development of thiamine deficiency. We investigated these issues in a thiamine deficient animal model. Twenty-four male Lewis rats were fed a thiamine deficient diet, which contained 0.04% of normal thiamine intake. Six control rats were fed 200 μg of thiamine per day. Every week a group of six rats on the thiamine-deficient diet was sacrificed and...
Source: Alcohol - January 28, 2013 Category: Addiction Authors: Astrid Klooster, James R. Larkin, Janneke Wiersema-Buist, Reinold O.B. Gans, Paul J. Thornalley, Gerjan Navis, Harry van Goor, Henri G.D. Leuvenink, Stephan J.L. Bakker Source Type: research

A Novel Scoring System to Guide Risk Assessment of Wernicke's Encephalopathy.
CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that assessment of WE is often inadequate, leading to inadequate thiamine administration. The new scoring system allows simple, structured risk assessment for WE and thus guides appropriate thiamine administration. This is of most value to clinicians treating the consequences of alcohol dependence in the community. PMID: 23278769 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research)
Source: Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research - December 20, 2012 Category: Addiction Authors: Green A, Parker R, Williams TM Tags: Alcohol Clin Exp Res Source Type: research

A Novel Scoring System to Guide Risk Assessment of Wernicke's Encephalopathy
ConclusionsWe conclude that assessment of WE is often inadequate, leading to inadequate thiamine administration. The new scoring system allows simple, structured risk assessment for WE and thus guides appropriate thiamine administration. This is of most value to clinicians treating the consequences of alcohol dependence in the community. (Source: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research)
Source: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research - December 20, 2012 Category: Addiction Authors: Amy Green, Richard Parker, Tim M. Williams Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Time to Act on the Inadequate Management of Wernicke's Encephalopathy in the UK
Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) is a serious medical emergency whose pathogenesis is well understood and reviewed in this paper. Summarizing the evidence for its prophylaxis and management, the authors suggest that, in the UK, there is evidence that many patients identified as being at risk of WE currently do not receive appropriate treatment, despite the availability (not universal) of guidelines and protocols. (Source: Alcohol and Alcoholism)
Source: Alcohol and Alcoholism - December 17, 2012 Category: Addiction Authors: Thomson, A. D., Marshall, E. J., Bell, D. Tags: COMMENTARY Source Type: research

Thiamine Deficiency Following Umbilical Cord Blood Transplant.
Abstract A case of Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) in the setting of umbilical cord blood transplant is reported. The patient, originally diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia, proceeded to an umbilical cord blood transplant. He presented with altered mental status 149 days following transplant. Prompt magnetic resonance imaging, baseline thiamine level, and immediate intravenous replacement allowed for recovery of most symptoms. Accompanying this case is a review of the known cases of WE in hematopoietic cell transplants and their causative factors. This is the first known adult...
Source: Nutrition in Clinical Practice - December 13, 2012 Category: Nutrition Authors: Trueg A, Borho T, Srivastava S, Kiel P Tags: Nutr Clin Pract Source Type: research

Alcohol use disorders
Abstract: The medical manifestations of alcohol are protean. A drinking history and high index of suspicion for alcohol misuse is part of comprehensive medical assessment. Identification of hazardous and harmful drinking, and provision of brief advice and brief intervention if indicated, should occur in any episode of healthcare. In acute settings, prevention and management of alcohol withdrawal, and of Wernicke's encephalopathy, are key priorities. In community settings, long-term management of alcohol dependence through regular monitoring and feedback is an effective way to manage many alcohol-dependent patients. (Source: Medicine)
Source: Medicine - November 27, 2012 Category: Internal Medicine Authors: James Bell Tags: Alcohol and other drug disorders Source Type: research

Acute Wernicke encephalopathy and sensorineural hearing loss complicating bariatric surgery.
Abstract Health-care professionals must be aware of the mandatory vitamin supplementation in patients status post bariatric surgery. A recent increase in the number of gastric bypass surgeries in US has been associated with a proportional increase in Wernicke encephalopathy reports. Subtle or atypical neurologic features are not uncommon. Our report is of a female patient with acute Wernicke encephalopathy accompanied by sensorineural hearing loss six weeks after bariatric surgery. The patient had only a partial recovery of her neurologic symptoms eightweeks after vigorous therapy for this condition. Symptomatic th...
Source: Connecticut Medicine - November 1, 2012 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Jethava A, Dasanu CA Tags: Conn Med Source Type: research

What Goes Around Comes Around? Wernicke Encephalopathy and the Nationwide Shortage of Intravenous Multivitamins Revisited [DIAGNOSIS IN ONCOLOGY]
(Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology)
Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology - October 30, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Perko, Harreld, Helton, Sabin, Haidar, Wright Tags: Leukemia, Solid Tumors (Pediatric), Supportive Care, General/Other Radiology DIAGNOSIS IN ONCOLOGY Source Type: research

Wernicke like encephalopathy in a child: A reversible cause
Riaz AhmedJournal of Pediatric Neurosciences 2012 7(2):146-148 (Source: Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences)
Source: Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences - October 17, 2012 Category: Neuroscience Authors: Riaz Ahmed Source Type: research

Nystagmus: An Uncommon Neurological Manifestation of Thiamine Deficiency as a Serious Complication of Sleeve Gastrectomy.
Abstract Wernicke encephalopathy-a debilitating acute or subacute neurological disorder-is caused by a deficiency in thiamine (vitamin B(1)). It is characterized by a classical clinical triad of symptoms: ocular impairment, cerebellar dysfunction, and confusion. Although bariatric surgery can certainly improve the overall health of an obese individual, it can also make him or her more susceptible to serious nutrition deficiencies. Following surgery, inadequate caloric intake, rapid and excessive weight loss, food intolerance, lack of adherence to nutrition supplementation, and/or the onset of prolonged vomiting can...
Source: Nutrition in Clinical Practice - October 5, 2012 Category: Nutrition Authors: Moizé V, Ibarzabal A, Sanchez Dalmau B, Flores L, Andreu A, Lacy A, Vidal J Tags: Nutr Clin Pract Source Type: research

Vitamin prescription for the prevention and treatment of Wernicke's encephalopathy
(Source: QJM)
Source: QJM - September 25, 2012 Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Hunt, E., Gee, S., Ranjith, G. Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research

A case of hemorrhagic Wernicke's encephalopathy following gastric surgery
Rosaria Renna, Francesca Plantone, Domenico PlantoneNeurology India 2012 60(4):453-454 (Source: Neurology India)
Source: Neurology India - September 6, 2012 Category: Neurology Authors: Rosaria RennaFrancesca PlantoneDomenico Plantone Source Type: research

Evolution of abnormal eye movements in Wernicke's encephalopathy: Correlation with serial MRI findings
Abstract: A 33-year-old woman with Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) due to poor oral intake after allogeneic stem cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia showed a sequential development of bilateral gaze-evoked nystagmus (GEN), rightward gaze palsy, and upbeat nystagmus. Initial MRIs obtained when she had GEN only showed a lesion involving the medullary tegmentum, and follow-up MRIs revealed additional lesions in the pontine and midbrain tegmentum along with development of rightward gaze palsy, and finally bilateral medial thalamus lesions in association with upbeat nystagmus. The evolution of abnormal ocular motor f...
Source: Journal of the Neurological Sciences - September 3, 2012 Category: Neurology Authors: Kitae Kim, Dong Hoon Shin, Yeong-Bae Lee, Kee-Hyung Park, Hyeon-Mi Park, Dong-Jin Shin, Ji-Soo Kim Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Wernicke's Encephalopathy Complicating Acute Necrotic Pancreatitis.
PMID: 22964173 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The American Surgeon)
Source: The American Surgeon - September 1, 2012 Category: Surgery Authors: Krokos N, Karakatsanis A, Sarafianos P, Koukou S Tags: Am Surg Source Type: research

Spectrum of MR Imaging Findings in Wernicke Encephalopathy: Are Atypical Areas of Involvement Only Present in Nonalcoholic Patients? [BRAIN]
CONCLUSIONS: MR imaging features of WE may not be different between AL and NA patients. The medulla is 1 of the most frequently involved sites, and consciousness level is also associated with atypical site involvement. (Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology)
Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology - August 14, 2012 Category: Radiology Authors: Ha, N. D., Weon, Y. C., Jang, J. C., Kang, B. S., Choi, S. H. Tags: BRAIN Source Type: research

Two Cases of Wernicke's Encephalopathy in Young Age Patients Receiving Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation.
Abstract Wernicke's encephalopathy is an acute neurolopsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine deficiency, and classically presents with the triad of opthalmopathy, ataxia and altered mentality. Both prolonged total parenteral nutrition and reduced oral intake can induce Wernicke's encephalopathy during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Although early treatment is important for recovery from Wernicke's encephalopathy, the vague symptoms and characteristics hinder early diagnosis. Furthermore, Wernicke's encephalopathy is not infrequent and can develop at any age during HSCT. Herein, we present two youn...
Source: Yonsei Medical Journal - August 12, 2012 Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Han JW, Lim S, Shin HS, Park HJ, Jung WJ, Kwon SY, Lyu CJ Tags: Yonsei Med J Source Type: research

Reversible generalized dystonia and encephalopathy from thiamine transporter 2 deficiency
Conclusions:Despite the rarity of thiamine transporter–2 deficiency, it should be suspected in patients with acute dystonia and basal ganglia injury, as thiamine can halt disease evolution and prevent further episodes. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society (Source: Movement Disorders)
Source: Movement Disorders - July 6, 2012 Category: Neurology Authors: Mercedes Serrano, Mónica Rebollo, Christel Depienne, Agnès Rastetter, Emilio Fernández‐Álvarez, Jordi Muchart, Loreto Martorell, Rafael Artuch, José A. Obeso, Belén Pérez‐Dueñas Tags: Brief Report Source Type: research

Acute postgastric reduction syndrome
is a complication of weight loss surgery involving systemic and central nervous system symptoms characterized by intractable vomiting, weakness, and hyporeflexia . Other symptoms include pain, incontinence, visual impairment associated with diplopia, and numbness. Although less common, dysphonia and delirium, as well as attention deficit, and memory and hearing loss, can occur. Physical examination typically demonstrates gaze-evoked nystagmus and severe proximal extremity weakness. Diagnostic studies will be characterized by axonal sensory motor polyneuropathy of the lower extremities involving the quadriceps. Nerve biops...
Source: Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases - July 2, 2012 Category: Surgery Authors: Sergio Huerta Tags: Letters to the Editor Source Type: research

A case of Wernicke’s encephalopathy due to oesophageal achalasia
Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s10072-012-1136-4Authors Federico Pacei, Stroke Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan, ItalyStephen Mullin, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Free Hospital, London, UKChiara Colombo, Department of Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan, ItalySara Viganò, Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, University of Milan, San Donato Milanese, Milan, ItalyLuciano Bet, Stroke Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy...
Source: Neurological Sciences - June 24, 2012 Category: Neurology Tags: Neurological Sciences Source Type: research

Appraisal of the Glasgow assessment and management of alcohol guideline: a comprehensive alcohol management protocol for use in general hospitals
Conclusions: The Glasgow Guideline aids the management of patients with AWS in an acute hospital setting. It allows early identification of at risk patients and directs effective therapeutic intervention. (Source: QJM)
Source: QJM - June 21, 2012 Category: Internal Medicine Authors: McPherson, A., Benson, G., Forrest, E. H. Tags: Original papers Source Type: research

MR Imaging: An Increasingly Important Tool in the Early Diagnosis of Wernicke Encephalopathy [LETTERS]
(Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology)
Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology - June 13, 2012 Category: Radiology Authors: Zuccoli, G., Pipitone, N. Tags: LETTERS Source Type: research

[Alcoholic ketoacidosis and reversible neurological complications due to hypophosphataemia].
Abstract A 57-year-old man with chronic alcoholism was admitted to our hospital due to disturbance of consciousness and polyradiculitis. Laboratory examination revealed metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia and hypophosphataemia. Alcoholic ketoacidosis is a common disorder in alcoholic patients. All patients present with a history of heavy alcohol misuse, preceding a bout of particularly excesive intake, which had been terminated by nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. The most important laboratory results are: normal or low glucose level, metabolic acidosis with a raised anion GAP, low or absent blood alcohol level and ...
Source: Nutricion Hospitalaria - June 1, 2012 Category: Nutrition Authors: Fernández López MT, García Bargo MD, Rivero Luis MT, Alvarez Vázquez P, Sáenz Fernández CA, Mato Mato JA Tags: Nutr Hosp Source Type: research

[Wernicke's encephalopathy complicating hyperemesis gravidarum.]
PMID: 22534098 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Annales Francaises d'Anesthesie et de Reanimation)
Source: Annales Francaises d'Anesthesie et de Reanimation - April 23, 2012 Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Housni B, Mimouni A, Serraj K, Oulali N, Azzouzi A Tags: Ann Fr Anesth Reanim Source Type: research

Thiamine before glucose? A myth that has long been debunked
3 out of 5 stars Glucose Before Thiamine for Wernicke Encephalopathy: A Literature Review. Schabelman E, Kuo D. J Emerg Med 2012 Apr;42:488-494. Abstract It had been an axiom long taught on medicine wards that before malnourished patients — especially alcoholics — are given intravenous glucose, they must first receive parenteral thiamine. The fear was that in the process of metabolizing the glucose a marginal thiamine deficiency would be turned into a complete thiamine deficiency, precipitating the devastating and often persistent neurological conditions Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome. There is ...
Source: The Poison Review - April 18, 2012 Category: Toxicology Authors: Leon Tags: Medical glucose korsakoff syndrome myths thiamine thiamine deficiency wernicke Source Type: news

Glucose before thiamine? A myth that has long been debunked
3 out of 5 stars Glucose Before Thiamine for Wernicke Encephalopathy: A Literature Review. Schabelman E, Kuo D. J Emerg Med 2012 Apr;42:488-494. Abstract It had been an axiom long taught on medicine wards that before malnourished patients — especially alcoholics — are given intravenous glucose, they must first receive parenteral thiamine. The fear was that in the process of metabolizing the glucose a marginal thiamine deficiency would be turned into a complete thiamine deficiency, precipitating the devastating and often persistent neurological conditions Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome. There is ...
Source: The Poison Review - April 18, 2012 Category: Toxicology Authors: Leon Tags: Medical glucose korsakoff syndrome myths thiamine thiamine deficiency wernicke Source Type: news

Acute Bilateral Deafness as the First Symptom of Wernicke Encephalopathy [LETTERS]
(Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology)
Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology - March 14, 2012 Category: Radiology Authors: Zhang, S.- Q., Guan, Y.- T. Tags: LETTERS Source Type: research

Evolution of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome in self-neglecting alcoholics: preliminary results of relation with Wernicke-delirium and diabetes mellitus.
We present a descriptive, retrospective study of initial symptoms, comorbidity, and alcohol withdrawal in 73 alcoholic patients with subsequent Korsakoff syndrome. In 25/73 (35%) of the patients the classic triad of Wernicke's encephalopathy with ocular symptoms, ataxia and confusion, was found. In at least 6/35 (17%) of the initial deliria (95% confidence interval: 10-25%) we observed no other underlying causes, thus excluding other somatic causes, medication, (recent) alcohol withdrawal, or intoxication. We suggest that these deliria may have been representing Wernicke's encephalopathy. A high frequency (15%) of diabetic...
Source: The American Journal on Addictions - March 1, 2012 Category: Addiction Authors: Wijnia JW, van de Wetering BJ, Zwart E, Nieuwenhuis KG, Goossensen MA Tags: Am J Addict Source Type: research

Wernicke-like encephalopathy during classic maple syrup urine disease decompensation
We describe a new neuroradiologic picture observed during metabolic decompensation in two maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) patients that resembles Wernicke encephalopathy (WE). Clinical observations and the review of the literature regarding WE and MSUD pathophysiology prompted us to hypothesize a pathogenic link between these two disorders. Based on these findings, clinicians and neuroradiologists should be aware of MSUD as a possible predisposing factor of WE in children. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Rapid CommunicationPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s10545-012-9456-3Authors R. Manara, Division of Neuroradiology, ...
Source: Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease - February 21, 2012 Category: Internal Medicine Tags: Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease Source Type: research

Marchiafava-Bignami disease: a case report
3 out of 5 stars Alcoholic ketoacidosis coincides with acute Marchiafava-Bignami disease — a case report. Chen MH, Cheng C. Am J Emerg Med 2012 Feb 3 [Epub ahead of print] No abstract available Yeah, I didn’t know what Marchiafava-Bignami disease (MBD) is either. Discovered by two Italian pathologists (let’s call them Dr. M and Dr. B) in 1903, MBD is rare but can occur in chronic drinkers. The crucial lesion involves demyelination and necrosis of the corpus callosum. The exact cause is not known. Characteristic presenting manifestations include altered mental status, coma, stupor, and pyramidal-tract signs. ...
Source: The Poison Review - February 18, 2012 Category: Toxicology Authors: Leon Tags: Medical alcohol related encephalopathy alcohol withdrawal alcoholic ketoacidosis marchiafava bignami disease Source Type: news

Evolution of wernicke-korsakoff syndrome in self-neglecting alcoholics: preliminary results of relation with wernicke-delirium and diabetes mellitus.
We present a descriptive, retrospective study of initial symptoms, comorbidity, and alcohol withdrawal in 73 alcoholic patients with subsequent Korsakoff syndrome. In 25/73 (35%) of the patients the classic triad of Wernicke's encephalopathy with ocular symptoms, ataxia and confusion, was found. In at least 6/35 (17%) of the initial deliria (95% confidence interval: 10-25%) we observed no other underlying causes, thus excluding other somatic causes, medication, (recent) alcohol withdrawal, or intoxication. We suggest that these deliria may have been representing Wernicke's encephalopathy. A high frequency (15%) of diabetic...
Source: American Journal on Addictions - February 17, 2012 Category: Addiction Authors: Wijnia JW, van de Wetering BJ, Zwart E, Nieuwenhuis KG, Anne Goossensen M Tags: Am J Addict Source Type: research

Role of Thiamine in Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in elderly individuals and is associated with progressive neurodegeneration of the human neocortex. Thiamine levels and the activity of thiamine-dependent enzymes are reduced in the brains and peripheral tissues of patients with AD. Genetic studies have provided the opportunity to determine what proteins link thiamine to AD pathology (ie, transketolase, apolipoprotein E, α-1-antitrypsin, pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, p53, glycogen synthetase kinase-3β, c-Fos gene, the Sp1 promoter gene, and the poly(ADP-ribosyl) polymerase-1 gene). We reviewed ...
Source: American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias - February 16, 2012 Category: Geriatrics Authors: Lu'o'ng, K. v. q., Nguy{ecirctilde}n, L. T. H. Tags: Reviews Source Type: research

Wernicke encephalopathy with atypical magnetic resonance imaging
This article is aimed to highlight the potential pitfalls in diagnosing acute mental change, the importance of clinical suspicion, and early treatment in WE. (Source: The American Journal of Emergency Medicine)
Source: The American Journal of Emergency Medicine - February 10, 2012 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Kuang-Chung Liou, Shu-Fan Kuo, Lu-An Chen Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

039 In-patient delirium referrals to neurology from a District General Hospital
Delirium cases, referred to neurology from two hospitals, were prospectively collected over 6 months. Were those referred with delirium suffering from it? Would there be additional cases of delirium, unsuspected by referrers, who presented with unusual manifestations of delirium? How had such cases been investigated and managed (NICE guidelines) and what diagnoses would emerge? Twenty-nine people (17 men, average age 66) were diagnosed with delirium after neurology review; 11 unrecognised by referrers and considered to have, for example, memory difficulty, leg weakness, postural intolerance, behavioural problems, deme...
Source: Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry - February 9, 2012 Category: Neurosurgery Authors: Walters, R. Tags: Meningitis, Memory disorders (neurology), Drugs: CNS (not psychiatric), Infection (neurology), Pain (neurology), Parkinson's disease, Delirium, Memory disorders (psychiatry) ABN abstracts Source Type: research

[Life-threatening complication of schizophrenia].
Abstract The Wernicke Encephalopathy (WE) as a result of a (sub)acute thiamine deficiency remains, unfortunately, still under-diagnosed, especially among non-alcoholics. It should be considered in each occurrence of delirium as well as in any ocular motor disorder and ataxia, in particular if there is a history of weight loss with or without gastrointestinal symptoms. In cases with suspected WE an immediate intravenous substitution of 3×200 mg/d is recommended. PMID: 22252595 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Praxis)
Source: Praxis - January 18, 2012 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Felix O, Felleiter P, Sturzenegger M Tags: Praxis (Bern 1994) Source Type: research

Wernicke encephalopathy presenting in a patient with severe acute pancreatitis.
Conclusion Wernicke encephalopathy secondary to thiamine deficiency should be considered as a possible cause of acute mental status changes in patients with acute pancreatitis and malnutrition. Prophylactic doses of thiamine could be considered in susceptible patients. PMID: 22233960 [PubMed - in process] (Source: JOP)
Source: JOP - January 1, 2012 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Arana-Guajardo AC, Cámara-Lemarroy CR, Rendón-Ramírez EJ, Jáquez-Quintana JO, Góngora-Rivera JF, Galarza-Delgado DA Tags: JOP Source Type: research

Wernicke's encephalopathy confirmed via brain MRI in cancer patient.
PMID: 22247100 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry)
Source: The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry - January 1, 2012 Category: Psychiatry Authors: Lee SM, Kang WS, Cho AR, Park JK Tags: Aust N Z J Psychiatry Source Type: research

Refractory Hypotension in a Patient with Wernicke's Encephalopathy
A 57-year-old male patient with gastric carcinoma underwent radical distal gastrectomy type II + Braun anastomosis, and received total parenteral nutrition for 10 days after surgery, followed by small amounts of semi-liquid nutrition for 3 days and liquid nutrition for 2 days. The patient developed refractory hypotension for more than 1 week in the early course of disease, and on Day 15 after surgery presented with characteristic signs of Wernicke's encephalopathy, including diplopia and mental confusion. The hypotension did not improve despite appropriate fluid replacement soon after admission. Treatment with mo...
Source: Alcohol and Alcoholism - December 20, 2011 Category: Addiction Authors: Wang, S., Hou, X., Ding, S., Guan, Y., Zhen, H., Tu, L., Qiu, Y. Tags: TREATMENT Source Type: research

Forniceal Involvement in Wernicke Encephalopathy [LETTERS]
(Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology)
Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology - December 13, 2011 Category: Radiology Authors: Borges, R. S., Ventura, N., Gasparetto, E. L., Pinto, M. V. R. Tags: LETTERS Source Type: research

Glucose before Thiamine for Wernicke Encephalopathy: A Literature Review
Conclusions: Mounting case report evidence suggests that prolonged glucose supplementation without the addition of thiamine can be a risk factor for the development of Wernicke encephalopathy. Based on our findings, a delay in giving glucose to hypoglycemic patients cannot be recommended at this time, although prompt thiamine supplementation after or concurrent with a return to normoglycemia is recommended. (Source: The Journal of Emergency Medicine)
Source: The Journal of Emergency Medicine - November 21, 2011 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Esteban Schabelman, Dick Kuo Tags: Clinical Reviews Source Type: research

Non-Alcoholic Wernicke's Encephalopathy
(Source: Consultant Live)
Source: Consultant Live - October 19, 2011 Category: Primary Care Source Type: news

Alcohol-related cognitive impairment in New South Wales hospital patients aged 50 years and over.
Conclusions: Alcohol-related dementia is a preventable and potentially reversible condition. Investigation of intervention strategies initiated during hospitalization are warranted. PMID: 21961480 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry)
Source: The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry - October 2, 2011 Category: Psychiatry Authors: Draper B, Karmel R, Gibson D, Peut A, Anderson P Tags: Aust N Z J Psychiatry Source Type: research

Neuroimaging in Postinfectious Demyelination and Nutritional Disorders of the Central Nervous System
This article describes acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis, acute necrotizing encephalopathy, and tumefactive demyelination as well as osmotic demyelination, Wernicke encephalopathy, Marchiafava–Bignami disease, and subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord. Although some characteristic MR imaging features allow radiologists to suggest a diagnosis, these may overlap, and images should be interpreted in light of clinical symptoms and laboratory investigations. (Source: Neuroimaging Clinics)
Source: Neuroimaging Clinics - September 26, 2011 Category: Radiology Authors: C.C. Tchoyoson Lim Source Type: research

Immunohistochemical expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and involvement of COX-2, quantitatively confirmed by Western blot analysis, in Wernicke's encephalopathy.
Abstract Selective cerebral vulnerability is a major consequence of Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE), in which focal areas of the brain exhibit symmetrical profound neuronal loss and accompanying gliosis, occurring most frequently in diencephalic regions such as the thalamus and the mammillary bodies. Many processes have been proposed to explain the selective cerebral vulnerability and the focal neuronal cell death in Wernicke's encephalopathy. There are several mechanisms which are common to the pathophysiology of encephalopathies caused by thiamine deficiency (TD). Recently, emphasis is being placed on deficit in m...
Source: Pathology, Research and Practice - September 17, 2011 Category: Pathology Authors: Neri M, Cantatore S, Pomara C, Riezzo I, Bello S, Turillazzi E, Fineschi V Tags: Pathol Res Pract Source Type: research

Wernicke’s encephalopathy in a patient with acute pancreatitis: unusual cortical involvement and marvelous prognosis
We present the case of a 47-year-old woman with prolonged therapeutic fasting who presented with ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and deep coma. MRI showed unusual symmetric cortical abnormalities in the frontal and parietal lobes, as well as typical lesions surrounding the third ventricle and aqueduct. Although the patient entered a vegetative state, she finally regained consciousness after thiamine supplementation unexpectedly. To the best of our knowledge, it has never been reported to date that the patient with WE in a vegetative state with cortical damage shows a marvelous prognosis, which prompts us to report this case. ...
Source: Neurological Sciences - September 15, 2011 Category: Neurology Tags: Neurological Sciences Source Type: research

Basal Ganglia Involvement in Wernicke Encephalopathy: Report of 2 Cases [CASE REPORTS]
We present the neuroimaging and clinical findings in 2 nonalcoholic adult patients with WE as assessed by MR imaging. The first patient presented with gait ataxia and changes in consciousness. MR imaging disclosed bilateral lesions in the dorsal striatum and cerebellum. None of the regions typically affected in WE were involved. The second patient showed symmetric lesions in the posterior putamen associated with the alterations frequently and infrequently found WE. (Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology)
Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology - August 11, 2011 Category: Radiology Authors: Zuccoli, G., Cravo, I., Bailey, A., Venturi, A., Nardone, R. Tags: CASE REPORTS Source Type: research

The Fornix in Health and Disease: An Imaging Review [Neurologic/Head and Neck Imaging]
The fornix is a discrete white matter tract bundle that is critical for normal cognitive functioning. Although clearly visualized at magnetic resonance imaging, its involvement in pathologic processes is often overlooked. Certain disease processes show a predilection for involvement of the fornix; in other pathologic conditions, its involvement is a rare but recognized finding. As part of the Papez circuit, it is critical in formation of memory, with damage or disease resulting in anterograde amnesia. Many different pathologic conditions can affect the fornix. Midline tumors such as gliomas or lymphoma can infiltrate it. A...
Source: Radiographics recent issues - July 17, 2011 Category: Radiology Authors: Thomas, A. G., Koumellis, P., Dineen, R. A. Tags: Neuroradiology Neurologic/Head and Neck Imaging Source Type: research

Neurological complications in hyperemesis gravidarum
This study investigated the neurological complications in a pregnant woman with hyperemesis gravidarum. A 29-year-old pregnant woman was admitted for hyperemesis gravidarum. Besides undernutrition, a neurological examination disclosed weakness with hyporeflexia, ophthalmoparesis, multidirectional nystagmus and optic disks swelling; the patient became rapidly comatose. Brain MRI showed symmetric signal hyperintensity and swelling of periaqueductal area, hypothalamus and mammillary bodies, medial and posterior portions of the thalamus and columns of fornix, consistent with Wernicke encephalopathy (WE). Neurophysiological...
Source: Neurological Sciences - July 1, 2011 Category: Neurology Tags: Neurological Sciences Source Type: research