A Critical Case of Wernicke's Encephalopathy Induced by Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Wernicke's Encephalopathy in Acute and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency is relatively common in patients with kidney disease. Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) is caused by vitamin B1 deficiency. Our aim was to systematically review the signs and symptoms of WE in patients with kidney disease. We conducted a systematic literature review on WE in kidney disease and recorded clinical and radiographic characteristics, treatment and outcome. In total 323 manuscripts were reviewed, which yielded 46 cases diagnosed with acute and chronic kidney disease and WE published in 37 reports. Prodromal characteristics of WE were loss of appetite, vomiting, weight loss, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Parenteral thiamine 500 mg 3 times per day often led to full recovery, while Korsakoff's syndrome was found in those receiving low doses. To prevent WE in kidney failure, we suggest administering high doses of parenteral thiamine in patients with kidney disease who present with severe malnutrition and (prodromal) signs of thiamine deficiency.

Intrauterine Fetal Demise: A Rare Complication of Wernicke's Encephalopathy Secondary to Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) is an acute neurological disorder caused by severe thiamine deficiency that manifests with a common range of clinical features including a triad of global confusion state, ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia. Though frequently associated with the alcohol-dependent population, WE has been seen in other patients where it often goes undiagnosed presumably due to rarity and variable clinical indications. In this case report, we highlight the importance of WE being considered as a differential diagnosis of acute encephalopathy particularly in women who have experienced fetal demise in conjunction with signs of malnourishment from hyperemesis gravidarum.