User:Mr. Ibrahem/Wernicke encephalopathy

Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a brain disorder that classically results in – abnormal movement of the eyes, poor coordination, and confusion. Around 10% of people exhibit all three features, with confusion being the most common. It is generally of sudden onset. When people walk they usually have their feet apart and take small steps.

It occurs due to thiamine deficiency. Risk factors include alcohol use disorder and malnutrition, though genetics may also play a role. Causes of malnutrition may include nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, eating disorders, or cancer. Diagnosis is generally based on symptoms; though may be supported by measuring blood thiamine levels. Without treatment about 80% of cases are complicated by Korsakoff syndrome, with its associated memory problems. The combination is known as Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome.

Treatment is with thiamine supplementation, which can lead to improvement within days to weeks, though some are left with permanent problems. Often a thiamine dose of 100 to 200 mg, one to three times per day, injected into a vein, for 3 to 5 days is used. Low magnesium should be treated if present. Without treatment about 15% of people die.

Wernicke's occurs in around 2% of people; though up to 12.5% of people with alcohol use disorder and 10% of people with AIDS are affected. The condition is believed to be underdiagnosed. It was initially described in 1881 by Carl Wernicke.