This document discusses Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a neurological disorder caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency commonly seen in those with alcoholism. The syndrome is characterized by memory loss, eye movement abnormalities, lack of muscle coordination and confabulation. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms by administering thiamine injections or supplements, managing nutrition, preventing worsening of the condition by stopping alcohol consumption, and in some cases hospitalization. Providing thiamine can improve confusion, vision issues and muscle coordination associated with the syndrome.

2. Loss of ability to form new memories

 Memory Loss, moderate to severe
 Ataxia-no muscle coordination
unsteady and uncoordinated
 Confabulation-Making up stories
 Hallucinations
 Abnormal eye movements
 Double Vision
 Eyelid drooping

3. A lack of Thiamine(Vitamin B1)

 Common in people with alcoholism
 People who regularly abuse alcohol will
have this because Alcohol affects the
breakdown of Thiamine in the body.
 Most of the Thiamine in their diets are
therefore not absorbed.

4. The focus is on controlling symptoms and to

prevent the disease from becoming worse
 Some people in the early stages of this
disease will stay in the hospital to help
manage symptoms.
 Some monitoring and special care is
needed for those in later stages
 Stopping alcohol use can prevent the loss
of brain function and the damage to
nerves

5. Thiamine given either by injection in a

vein or muscle, or orally can improve the
symptoms of;
 Confusion/Delirium
 Difficulties with vision/eye movement
 Lack of Muscle Coordination

6. Not Drinking alcohol/Drinking lightly

 Getting enough nutrition and Thiamine
 For a heavy drinker that will not quit
Thiamine supplements can be taken

7. RESOURCES
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000771.htm
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