Acute Dizziness Treated With Thiamine Supplement: A Case of Wernicke Encephalopathy
10.3342/kjorl-hns.2022.00360
- Author:
Brian KIM
1
;
Seong-Eun HONG
;
Jungmin AHN
Author Information
1. Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Korea Cancer Center Hospital, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Science, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:Korean Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
2022;65(11):722-726
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is an uncommon but severe neurological disorder caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. It is characterized by the sudden onset of altered consciousness, ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia. Apart from chronic alcoholism, a lot of other conditions causing malnutrition and decreasing thiamine absorption must be considered as predisposing factors. Due to its low prevalence and clinical heterogeneity, WE is often misdiagnosed, resulting in persistent dysfunctions or death. Therefore, early diagnosis and prompt treatment with intravenous thiamine supplement might prevent encephalopathy and other neurologic or systemic complications of thiamine depletion. We hereby report of our experience of a WE patient who presented with predominantly vestibular symptoms and signs; the patient was successfully diagnosed and treated with high-dose intravenous thiamine repletion.
