Wernicke's Syndrome Induced by Hyperemesis Gravidarum.
- Author:
Yoon Heui KIM
1
;
Seok Joon LEE
;
Jun Keun YOON
;
Wook Pyo HONG
Author Information
1. Department of Ophthalmology, Wonju Christian Hospital, Yonsei University, Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea.
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Hyperemesis gravidarum;
Thiamine deficiency;
Wernicke' syndrome
- MeSH:
Absorption;
Adult;
Alcoholism;
Amnesia;
Ataxia;
Diagnosis;
Diet;
Diplopia;
Electroencephalography;
Female;
Gait;
Gait Ataxia;
Humans;
Hyperemesis Gravidarum*;
Neurologic Examination;
Paralysis;
Pregnancy;
Sensation;
Skin;
Thiamine;
Thiamine Deficiency;
Vomiting;
Wernicke Encephalopathy*
- From:Journal of the Korean Ophthalmological Society
2001;42(3):538-541
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
PURPOSE: Wernicke's syndrome, which is characterized by nystagmus, abducent and conjugate gaze palsies, ataxia, mental confusion, and amnesia, is caused by a deficiency in levels of thiamine and is observed mainly in persons who abuse alcohol. Recognized predisposing conditions other than alcoholism include chronic dietary deprivation(imbalanced diet, prolonged intravenous feeding.) and impaired absorption or intake of dietary nutrients. METHODS: We have experienced a 31-year-old female presented 15 weeks into pregnancy who complained of icteric skin color, diplopia, and gait disturbance after prolonged vomiting for 2 months. Neurologic examination demonstrated obtunded sensations, nystagmus and ataxia of gait. EEG showed a mild degree of slowly diffuse activity. The neurological signs pointed to a diagnosis of Wernicke's encephalopathy. RESULTS: We report a case of Wernicke's syndrome induced by hyperemesis gravidarum with the review of literature.
