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Brothers TN, Furtado M, Al-Mamun MA. Thiamine utilization and the lack of prescribing standardization: A critical examination. Alcohol 2024; 117:11-19. [PMID: 37979843 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2023.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Thiamine is often prescribed for thiamine deficiency during hospitalization despite the lack of US-based clinical guidelines. This study aims to evaluate thiamine prescribing patterns and key characteristics associated with the deficiency to address gaps in care. METHODS Data were obtained from electronic health records of hospitalized patients between September 1, 2021, and March 30, 2022. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) was defined by a positive Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment score or a positive serum alcohol level upon admission. Geriatric patients were defined as age ≥65. Cohort 1 was defined as: AUD, albumin <4 g/L, INR >1.5, and total bilirubin >3 mg/dL. Cohort 2 was defined as: age >65, albumin <4 g/L, hemoglobin <15 g/dL, and folate <4 ng/mL. A multivariable LASSO regression model was used to identify characteristics associated with higher thiamine dosing (>100 mg/day). RESULTS Among 780 patients, 520 (66.7%) were identified as AUD, of which 265 (50.1%) were between the ages of 45-64 years. The AUD cohort was significantly different (p < 0.05) in the mean serum albumin 4.16 g/L (IQR: 3.8-4.5), AST 73.55 U/L (23.75-82.00), ALT 52.57 U/L (17.00-57.00), total bilirubin 0.98 (0.3-1.0), and INR 1.1 (0.99-1.12), compared to non-AUD patients with a mean serum albumin 3.75 g/L (3.3-4.2), AST 35.07 U/L (11.00-42.00), ALT 32.77 U/L (5.00-34.00), total bilirubin 0.89 (0.2-0.9), and INR 1.21 (1.0-1.22). In the geriatric cohort, 136 patients (17%) had a mean serum albumin 3.77 g/L (3.4-4.2), AST 38.66 U/L (14.0-41.0), ALT 29.36 U/L (9.0-37.0), total bilirubin 0.62 mg/dL (0.30-0.90), and direct bilirubin 0.12 mg/dL (0.00-0.20), compared to the non-geriatric cohort with a mean serum albumin 4.10 g/L (3.8-4.40), AST 66.44 U/L (21.0-75.0), ALT 50.03 U/L (16.00-53.75), total bilirubin 1.02 mg/dL (0.30-1.00), and direct bilirubin 0.31 mg/dL (0.00-0.20). In cohort 1, 40.6% patients were between 51 and 64 years old, (66.5%) male, and had a BMI <25 (36.4%). In cohort 2, 52.6% were between 65 and 70 years old, (57.9%) male, and had a BMI <25 (57.9%). Cohort 1 were prescribed a dose of 100 mg (47.7 %), oral (63.5%), intramuscular (18.2%), daily (58.9%), one-day duration (49.4%) most frequently. Cohort 2 were prescribed a dose of 100 mg (56.0%), oral (77.2%), daily (77.2%), one-day duration (29.8%) most frequently. The AUD was significantly associated with having a higher dosage (e.g., >100 mg) of thiamine prescribed per day OR 1.62 (1.11-2.37) (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study confirms that thiamine prescribing patterns vary during hospitalization and suggest specific laboratory findings may aid in identifying cohorts associated with the deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd N Brothers
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States; Roger Williams Medical Center, Providence, RI, United States.
| | | | - Mohammad A Al-Mamun
- School of Pharmacy, University of West Virginia, Morgantown, WV, United States
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Tokue H, Ishikawa R, Oshima K, Sawada Y, Aramaki Y, Kawano K, Nihei T, Isogai K, Kawahara K, Yokota T, Yasui H, Ikeya M, Okabe T, Tokue A, Tsushima Y. Wernicke encephalopathy with atypical imaging findings in a depressed patient: A case report. Radiol Case Rep 2024; 19:1729-1733. [PMID: 38384693 PMCID: PMC10877111 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.01.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This case report highlights the rare occurrence of Wernicke encephalopathy caused by malnutrition in a depressed patient with atypical imaging findings. A 60-year-old female with depression developed a disturbance of consciousness owing to Wernicke encephalopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging showed abnormal signals in the thalamus and mammillary bodies around the third ventricle, cerebral aqueduct, and fourth ventricle. Abnormal signals were also present in the cerebral cortex around the central sulcus, and an intracranial hemorrhage from the thalamus was observed. Therefore, clinicians should consider Wernicke encephalopathy in the differential diagnosis of altered consciousness in depressed patients. Early assessment of nutritional status and prompt intervention are crucial in cases of prolonged depression-related malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tokue
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Rei Ishikawa
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kiyohiro Oshima
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yusuke Sawada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yuto Aramaki
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kei Kawano
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takumi Nihei
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kouta Isogai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kohei Kawahara
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takayuki Yokota
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yasui
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Miho Ikeya
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tamaki Okabe
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Azusa Tokue
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yoshito Tsushima
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Gunma University Hospital, Gunma, Japan
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Tao X, Qiao R, Liu C, Guo L, Li J, Kang Y, Wei Y. Wernicke encephalopathy induced by glucose infusion: A case report and literature review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29419. [PMID: 38681648 PMCID: PMC11053267 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a potentially fatal condition caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. Chronic alcoholism is the most common cause of WE; however, other conditions responsible for thiamine deficiency should also be considered. Case Report We report the case of a 64-year-old woman with a history of diabetes who presented with confusion and apathy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed T2 hyperintensities involving dorsolateral medulla oblongata, tegmentum of the pons, vermis of the cerebellum, periaqueductal region, and the bilateral mammillary bodies. She had a history of intravenous glucose administration before her mental symptoms developed. On suspicion of WE, she was treated with a high dose of thiamine empirically. Her clinical condition improved rapidly in 2 weeks. Conclusion Endogenous thiamine stores can be rapidly depleted in the case of enhanced glucose oxidation. Patients who receive glucose should also be prescribed thiamine to avoid inducing or exacerbating WE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangkun Tao
- Psychologic Medicine Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Renjie Qiao
- Clinical Medicine Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Can Liu
- Department of Radiology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Lu Guo
- Department of Neurology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Jingcheng Li
- Department of Neurology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yulai Kang
- Department of Neurology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Youdong Wei
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurobiology, Chongqing, China
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Cohen Vig L, Straussberg R, Ziv N, Hirschfeld-Dicker L, Konen O, Aharoni S. Neurologic complications of thiamine (B1) deficiency following bariatric surgery in adolescents. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2024; 50:74-80. [PMID: 38705013 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents is rising and poses a major health concern. Bariatric surgery is well established in adults and has become an option for adolescents. Thiamine (B1) deficiency is common following bariatric surgery in adults. It may present as Beri-Beri, Wernicke encephalopathy, or Korsakoff psychosis. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to describe the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of adolescents who presented with B1 deficiency after bariatric surgery at one center, and to summarize the data from the literature. PATIENTS Three adolescents with morbid obesity (two boys and one girl, aged 15.5 to- 17-years-old), presented at Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel with progressive lower limb pain and weakness 2-3 month following a bariatric procedure (sleeve gastrectomy or narrowing of a bariatric band). The girl also had upper limb involvement and cerebellar signs. All three were non-compliant with micronutrient supplementation. After admission, they received intravenous B1 and oral multivitamin supplementation, and their symptoms improved considerably. CONCLUSIONS Micronutrient supplementation following bariatric surgery is crucial to prevent deficiencies. In adolescents, compliance with micronutrient supplementation should be assessed before and after such surgery. Thiamine deficiency may cause polyneuropathy, among other symptoms. Treatment reduces the severity of neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lital Cohen Vig
- Institute of Pediatric Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Rachel Straussberg
- Institute of Pediatric Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Noa Ziv
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Pediatric Department C, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel
| | - Lior Hirschfeld-Dicker
- Pediatric Department C, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel
| | - Osnat Konen
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Institute of Pediatric Radiology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel
| | - Sharon Aharoni
- Institute of Pediatric Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Chen CC, Chang PC, Chang TW, Chuang HY. Wernicke Encephalopathy After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Presenting with Altered Mental Status-A Video Case Report. Obes Surg 2024:10.1007/s11695-024-07216-2. [PMID: 38658468 DOI: 10.1007/s11695-024-07216-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a seldom encountered yet significant neuropsychiatric ailment resulting from a deficiency in thiamine (vitamin B1). While commonly linked with chronic alcoholism or insufficient dietary intake, instances of WE following bariatric and metabolic surgeries, notably laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), have been sporadically documented. This case study elucidates the condition of a male patient who, 3 months after undergoing RYGB to address severe obesity, displayed abrupt alterations in mental status, swiftly ameliorated by immediate administration of intravenous high-dose thiamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Chiang Chen
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chih Chang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Weight Management Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Department of Sports Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Ph. D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Wei Chang
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Weight Management Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Yu Chuang
- Weight Management Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Tzyou 1st Road, 80756, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
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Kuzume D, Morimoto Y, Tsutsumi S, Yamasaki M, Hosomi N. [Analysis of factors leading to brain MRI lesions in Wernicke's encephalopathy]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2024:cn-001919. [PMID: 38644211 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
[Objective] To investigate association between Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) and brain MRI. [Subjects] 26 patients (7 females, mean age 63.9 ± 12.7 years) with WE admitted to our department between May 2008 and September 2022. [Methods] Wernicke's encephalopathy in patients with MRI lesions was defined as "MRI-positive group" (MPG), and those without MRI lesions as "MRI-negative group" (MNG). The following parameters were assessed between the two groups: age, sex, alcoholism, neurological symptoms, vitamin B1, lymphocyte, total cholesterol, albumin, and outcome at discharge. [Results] There were 17 patients in MPG. Compared to MNG, MPG had lower rates of alcohol abuse (10.0% vs 77.8%, P = 0.025), lower vitamin B1 (median 10.0 ng/ml vs 29.0 ng/ml, P < 0.001), and more vitamin B1 treatment dose (median 1900 mg vs 600 mg, P = 0.016). [Conclusion] Alcoholic WE may be overlooked if the focus is solely on brain MRI findings.
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Wani NA, Malik I, Tariq S, Bhat AS, Qureshi UA. The role of CT brain findings in the early diagnosis of infantile encephalitic beriberi. Neuroradiology 2024:10.1007/s00234-024-03346-7. [PMID: 38558180 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-024-03346-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thiamine deficiency disease may occur in infants from thiamine-deficient mothers in developing countries, as well as in infants fed solely with soy-based formula. Thiamine deficiency in infants may present with acute neurological manifestations of infantile encephalitic beriberi. OBJECTIVE To review the role of noncontrast CT brain findings in infantile encephalitic beriberi in early diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective review of noncontrast CT scans of the brain in 21 infants with acute-onset infantile encephalitic beriberi was carried out. RESULTS On noncontrast-enhanced CT brain, hypodense lesions were seen symmetrically in the putamen in all the babies; symmetric hypodensities were seen in the caudate nuclei in 14/21 (67%), in dorsomedial thalami/hypothalamic/subthalamic area in 4/21 (19%), and in the globi pallidi in 2/21 (9.5%) of the infants. CONCLUSION Recognition of symmetrical hypodense lesions in the basal ganglia and medial thalami/hypothalamic/subthalamic area on noncontrast CT scan of the brain are important early features to recognize in encephalitic beriberi in at-risk infants. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE IEBB is a cause of hypodense bilateral basal ganglia and may be identified by this finding in the appropriate clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisar A Wani
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Govt Medical College, Srinagar, J&K, India.
| | - Ishaq Malik
- Department of Pediatrics, Govt Medical College, Srinagar, J&K, India
| | - Syed Tariq
- Department of Pediatrics, Govt Medical College, Srinagar, J&K, India
| | - Abdus Sami Bhat
- Department of Pediatrics, Govt Medical College, Srinagar, J&K, India
| | - Umar Amin Qureshi
- Department of Pediatrics, Govt Medical College, Srinagar, J&K, India
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Clark AF. Use of Thiamine Supplementation in Pregnant Women Diagnosed With Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Wernicke Encephalopathy. Nurs Womens Health 2024:S1751-4851(24)00044-8. [PMID: 38527735 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Hyperemesis gravidarum is the most common condition requiring hospital care for women during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy and may lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and vitamin deficiencies. Depletion of vitamins such as thiamine may result in the development of Wernicke encephalopathy, a severe neurological disorder that can increase the risk for mortality and morbidity for the mother and fetus. A lack of awareness regarding the relationship of hyperemesis gravidarum and Wernicke encephalopathy may result in delayed treatment and disease management. Glucose administration in the presence of thiamine deficiency may induce Wernicke encephalopathy; protocols are needed to ensure dextrose is used for women with hyperemesis gravidarum in times of prolonged vomiting and poor oral intake only after first administering thiamine. This article includes a discussion of best practices for thiamine supplementation with hyperemesis gravidarum and Wernicke encephalopathy.
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Goodman ZS, Gardner SM, Rustad JK, Finn CT, Landsman HS, Ho PA. Using Academic Consultation-Liaison Telepsychiatry to Meet the Mental Health Needs of Complex, Medically Ill Patients in Underserved Areas: A Case Report. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:895-898. [PMID: 37917927 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The nationwide shortage of mental health resources often disproportionately affects rural areas. As innovative strategies are required to address mental health resource shortages in rural areas, telepsychiatry consultation (TPC) may represent a population health-oriented approach to bridge this gap. In this case report, we examine the use of TPC from an academic consultation-liaison psychiatry service to a rural community hospital. Case Report: We describe the case of a woman with Wernicke encephalopathy seeking to leave the hospital against medical advice and the role that the TPC service played in the patient's evaluation and management, including assessing decision-making capacity. Discussion: We then examine benefits and limitations of the service, including a narrative review of the relevant, but limited, available literature as well as suggestions for how the service may be improved and incorporated into psychiatry residency and fellowship training in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary S Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Spencer M Gardner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - James K Rustad
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
| | - Christine T Finn
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - H Samuel Landsman
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Patrick A Ho
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
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Dupuy G, Roux CJ, Barrois R, Imbard A, Pontoizeau C, Dangles MT, Aubart M, Arnoux JB, Margoses D, Brassier A, Marbach C, Bérat CM, Sarda E, Gitiaux C, de Lonlay P, Boddaert N, Schiff M, Desguerre I. Vitamin deficiencies in children: Lessons from clinical and neuroimaging findings. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2024; 50:6-15. [PMID: 38520815 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2024.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Water-soluble vitamins play an essential coenzyme role in the nervous system. Acquired vitamin deficiencies are easily treatable, however, without treatment, they can lead to irreversible complications. This study aimed to provide clinical, laboratory parameters and neuroimaging data on vitamin deficiencies in an attempt to facilitate early diagnosis and prompt supplementation. METHODS From July 1998 to July 2023, patients at Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital presenting with acute neurological symptoms attributed to acquired vitamin deficiency were included. Clinical data were extracted from Dr Warehouse database. Neuroimaging, biochemical and electrophysiological data were reviewed. RESULTS Patients with vitamin B1 deficiency exhibited abnormal eye movements (n = 4/4), fluctuations in consciousness (n = 3/4), and ataxia (n = 3/4). Brain MRI showed alterations of fourth ventricle region (n = 4/4), periaqueductal region (n = 4/4), tectum (n = 3/4), and median thalami (n = 3/4). Patients with vitamin B2 deficiency presented with early onset hypotonia (n = 3/4), hyperlactatemia (n = 4/4), and hyperammonemia (n = 4/4). Plasma acylcarnitines revealed a multiple acyl-coA dehydrogenase deficiency-like profile (n = 4/4). In vitamin B12 deficiency, young children presented with developmental delay (n = 7/7) and older children with proprioceptive ataxia (n = 3/3). Brain MRI revealed atrophy (n = 7/7) and spinal MRI hyperintensity in posterior cervical columns (n = 3/3). Metabolic findings showed elevated methylmalonic acid (n = 6/7) and hyperhomocysteinemia (n = 6/7). Patients with vitamin C deficiency exhibited gait disturbances and muscle weakness (n = 2/2). CONCLUSIONS Acquired vitamin deficiencies may display reversible clinical symptoms mimicking inherited metabolic disorders. Some situations raise suspicion for diagnosis: concordant clinical presentation, suggestive neuroimaging findings, and/or biochemical evidence. Any acute neurological condition should be treated without waiting for definitive biochemical confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Dupuy
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France; Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France.
| | - Charles-Joris Roux
- Pediatric Radiology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Rémi Barrois
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France; Pediatric Neurophysiology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Apolline Imbard
- Department of Biochemistry, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Clément Pontoizeau
- Department of Biochemistry, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Saclay, Paris, France
| | - Marie Thérèse Dangles
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Mélodie Aubart
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Arnoux
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France
| | - Diane Margoses
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France
| | - Anaïs Brassier
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France
| | - Clothilde Marbach
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France
| | - Claire-Marine Bérat
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France
| | - Eugénie Sarda
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Cyril Gitiaux
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France; Pediatric Neurophysiology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Pascale de Lonlay
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France; INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants-Malades (INEM), Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Boddaert
- Pediatric Radiology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France; INSERM UMRS_1163, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
| | - Manuel Schiff
- Reference Center for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, G2M Network, MetabERN, Paris, France; INSERM UMRS_1163, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Desguerre
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Necker-Enfants-Malades Hospital, APHP, University of Paris Cité, Paris, France
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11
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Albrecht P, Berteld C, Neukäter W. [The sex was to forget : The case of an acute postcoital confusional state]. Med Klin Intensivmed Notfmed 2024; 119:63-65. [PMID: 37853255 DOI: 10.1007/s00063-023-01073-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P Albrecht
- Abteilung für Neurologie, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Wesel, Schermbecker Landstr. 88, 46485, Wesel, Deutschland.
| | - C Berteld
- Abteilung für Neurologie, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Wesel, Schermbecker Landstr. 88, 46485, Wesel, Deutschland
| | - W Neukäter
- Abteilung für Neurologie, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Wesel, Schermbecker Landstr. 88, 46485, Wesel, Deutschland
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12
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Ishida M, Sato S, Sato I, Yoshioka A, Uchida N, Mizunuma N, Hasegawa K, Onishi H. What can cause cancer patients to attempt suicide? Thiamine deficiency mimicking the symptoms of major depressive disorder. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:205-208. [PMID: 37496388 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523001128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Thiamine deficiency (TD) presents with various physical and psychiatric symptoms, but no cases with depression-like symptoms have been reported. METHODS We report a patient with cancer who appeared to attempt suicide as a consequence of depressive mood likely related to TD. RESULTS The patient was a 58-year-old woman diagnosed with recurrent endometrial cancer, with lung metastasis and pelvic dissemination. The patient apparently attempted suicide was referred to the psycho-oncology department. At the time of the examination, major depressive disorder was suspected based on her mental symptoms, but when thiamine was administered intravenously in response to her poor dietary intake, her palpitations, dyspnea, anorexia, and insomnia improved, and her suicidal ideation disappeared at her reexamination 1 hour later after thiamine administration. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS It is likely that the observed palpitations, dyspnea, anorexia, and insomnia, as well as the severe depression and the attempted suicide, which were thought to be physical symptoms associated with depression, were actually related to TD. Suicidal ideation and attempted suicide are conspicuous as psychiatric symptoms. However, in such cases, rather than simply starting treatment for depression, it is necessary to consider reversible TD as a cause of these symptoms and perform differential diagnosis to confirm the physical illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Ishida
- Department of Psycho-oncology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Sho Sato
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Izumi Sato
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Akira Yoshioka
- Department of Medical Oncology and Palliative Care, Mitsubishi Kyoto Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nozomu Uchida
- Department of General Medicine, Ogano Town Central Hospital, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Kosei Hasegawa
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hideki Onishi
- Department of Psycho-oncology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
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Fiorentini M, Nedu B, Dapoto F, Brunelli E, Pilu G, Youssef A. When time is brain: a systematic review about Wernicke encephalopathy as a dramatic consequence of thiamin deficiency in hyperemesis gravidarum. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 36:2223678. [PMID: 37322816 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2023.2223678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Nausea and vomiting affect up to 80% of all pregnancies, sometimes so severely that the condition of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is established. HG may in addition be a predisposing factor for Wernicke encephalopathy (WE), a severe and life-threatening condition due to vitamin B1 (thiamin) deficiency. If untreated, WE may progress to Korsakoff's syndrome, an irreversible cognitive disorder. We reported a case that recently occurred at our clinic and performed a systematic review of the literature to investigate the clinical presentation, maternal and perinatal outcomes and treatment of WE in women with HG. METHODS We performed a systematic review of case series and case reports searching the Medline database on Pubmed from inception until December 2021. We used as search terms (Wernicke encephalopathy) OR (Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome) AND (hyperemesis gravidarum) AND (pregnancy) AND (thiamin deficiency). Articles were considered eligible for inclusion in our review if they described at least one case of WE due to thiamin deficiency in relation to HG. An overall of 82 cases of WE due to HG in pregnancy from 66 manuscripts, including our own, were selected. RESULTS The maternal mean age was 26.38 ± 5.23 years, while mean gestational week at hospitalization was 14.57 ± 4.12 after a mean of 6.6 ± 3.14 weeks of vomiting duration. WE manifestation occurred at a mean gestational age of 16.54 ± 3.06 weeks. Regarding clinical presentation, ocular signs and symptoms were reported by 77/82 (93.9%) women, 61/82 (74.4%) presented with ataxia and 63/82 (76.8%) with confusion. Dysarthria affected 15/82 women (18,3%), while muscular weakness was present in 36/82 (43.9%) and impaired reflexes in 42/82 (51.2%). Memory impairment involved 25/82 (30.5%) of the study population. Almost all cases reported a thiamin administration treatment, however data regarding the clinical course of the neurological condition and the perinatal outcomes were often missing and showed a great heterogeneity when reported. CONCLUSION WE is a challenging diagnosis, as its clinical presentation is nonspecific. A high clinical suspicion and the awareness of its possible predisposing conditions such as HG may help clinicians to get a prompt diagnosis and starting treatment, which are vital to prevent possible life-impairing neurological sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Fiorentini
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero- Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Bianca Nedu
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero- Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Dapoto
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero- Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Brunelli
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero- Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Pilu
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero- Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Aly Youssef
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero- Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
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Novo-Veleiro I, Mateos-Díaz AM, Rosón-Hernández B, Medina-García JA, Muga R, Fernández-Solá J, Martín-González MC, Seco-Hernández E, Suárez-Cuervo C, Monte-Secades R, Machado-Prieto B, Puerta-Louro R, Prada-González C, Fernández-Rial Á, Sabio-Repiso P, Vázquez-Vigo R, Antolí-Royo AC, Gomila-Grange A, Felipe-Pérez NC, Sanvisens-Bergé A, Antúnez-Jorge E, Fernández-Rodríguez CM, Alvela-Suárez L, Fidalgo-Navarro A, Castro J, Polvorosa-Gómez MA, Valle-Sánchez MD, López-Castro J, Chamorro AJ, Marcos M. Treatment variability and its relationships to outcomes among patients with Wernicke's encephalopathy: A multicenter retrospective study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 252:110961. [PMID: 37748425 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite guidelines and recommendations, Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) treatment lacks evidence, leading to clinical practice variability. AIMS Given the overall lack of information on thiamine use for WE treatment, we analyzed data from a large, well-characterized multicenter sample of patients with WE, examining thiamine dosages; factors associated with the use of different doses, frequencies, and routes; and the influence of differences in thiamine treatment on the outcome. METHODS This retrospective study was conducted with data from 443 patients from 21 centers obtained from a nationwide registry of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (from 2000 to 2012). Discharge codes and Caine criteria were applied for WE diagnosis, and treatment-related (thiamine dosage, frequency, and route of administration) demographic, clinical, and outcome variables were analyzed. RESULTS We found marked variability in WE treatment and a low rate of high-dose intravenous thiamine administration. Seventy-eight patients out of 373 (20.9%) received > 300mg/day of thiamine as initial dose. Patients fulfilling the Caine criteria or presenting with the classic WE triad more frequently received parenteral treatment. Delayed diagnosis (after 24h hospitalization), the fulfillment of more than two Caine criteria at diagnosis, mental status alterations, and folic acid deficiency were associated significantly with the lack of complete recovery. Malnutrition, reduced consciousness, folic acid deficiency, and the lack of timely thiamine treatment were risk factors for mortality. CONCLUSIONS Our results clearly show extreme variability in thiamine dosages and routes used in the management of WE. Measures should be implemented to ensure adherence to current guidelines and to correct potential nutritional deficits in patients with alcohol use disorders or other risk factors for WE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Novo-Veleiro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Ana-M Mateos-Díaz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain; Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Virgen del Puerto, Plasencia, Cáceres, Spain.
| | | | | | - Roberto Muga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | | | - Elena Seco-Hernández
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Ourense, Ourense, Spain.
| | | | - Rafael Monte-Secades
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti, Lugo, Spain.
| | - Begoña Machado-Prieto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | - Rocío Vázquez-Vigo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain.
| | - Ana-C Antolí-Royo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complejo Asistencial de Ávila, Ávila, Spain.
| | | | | | - Arantza Sanvisens-Bergé
- Epidemiology Unit and Girona Cancer Registry, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Pla Director d'Oncologia, Girona, Spain.
| | | | | | - Lucia Alvela-Suárez
- Department of Internal Medicine, HM Rosaleda Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonio-J Chamorro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Miguel Marcos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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Yu AT, Gross A, Park K, Harvey EJ. Wernicke Encephalopathy After Bariatric Surgery: a Literature Review. Obes Surg 2023; 33:3621-3627. [PMID: 37798508 DOI: 10.1007/s11695-023-06840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is an acute neurological disorder classically characterized by ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and altered mental status. This is caused by thiamine deficiency and is usually seen in malnourished populations. However, with the advent and rise of bariatric surgery in the last 50 years, WE has become an increasingly recognized and potentially deadly complication. Here, we review the populations at risk, clinical presentation, and the incidence of WE in the bariatric surgery population from 1985 to 2023. While the predominant procedure shifts throughout the years, the overall incidence of WE per 100,000 cases for the following procedures are sleeve gastrectomy (1.06), gastric band (1.16), RYGB (4.29), and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (8.92). Thus, early intervention and post-operative supplementation is recommended to prevent WE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen T Yu
- Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Aliza Gross
- Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Koji Park
- Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Eugenius J Harvey
- Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, 10029, USA
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Agedal KJ, Steidl KE, Burgess JL. An Overview of Type B Lactic Acidosis Due to Thiamine (B1) Deficiency. J Pediatr Pharmacol Ther 2023; 28:397-408. [PMID: 38130495 PMCID: PMC10731935 DOI: 10.5863/1551-6776-28.5.397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Type B lactic acidosis can occur secondary to several factors, including thiamine deficiency, and is not as common as type A. Recognizing thiamine deficiency-associated lactic acidosis is challenging because serum thiamine concentrations are not routinely obtained, and a thorough and specific history is necessary for clinicians to suspect thiamine deficiency as a root cause. Furthermore, the appropriate dose and duration of thiamine treatment are not well defined. Untreated thiamine deficiency-associated lactic acidosis can lead to critical illness requiring lifesaving extracorporeal therapies. Additionally, if thiamine and glucose are not administered in an appropriate sequence, Wernicke encephalopathy or Korsakoff syndrome may occur. This review aims to summarize therapeutic treatment for thiamine deficiency-associated lactic acidosis, based on case reports/series and nutritional guidance. After a literature search of the PubMed database, 63 citations met inclusion criteria, of which 21 involved pediatric patients and are the focus of this review. -Citations describe dosing regimens ranging from 25 to 1000 mg of intravenous (IV) thiamine as a single dose, or multiple daily doses for several days. Specific guidance for critically ill adults recommends a thiamine range of 100 mg IV once daily to 400 mg IV twice daily. Although there are no specific recommendations for the pediatric population, given the relative safety of thiamine administration, its low cost, and our review of the literature, treatment with thiamine 100 to 200 mg IV at least once is supported, with ongoing daily doses based on clinical response of the patient, regardless of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn J. Agedal
- Department of Pharmacy (KJA, KES, JLB), SUNY Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse, NY
| | - Kelly E. Steidl
- Department of Pharmacy (KJA, KES, JLB), SUNY Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse, NY
- Department of Pediatrics (KES), SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
| | - Jeni L. Burgess
- Department of Pharmacy (KJA, KES, JLB), SUNY Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse, NY
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Rudolph AM, Doubrovinskaia S, Knabbe J, Seliger C, Lenhard T. Case report: A 33 years-old alcoholic male with diarrhea and progressive muscle weakness mimicking Guillain-Barré syndrome. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1212497. [PMID: 37609656 PMCID: PMC10440691 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1212497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A subacute manifestation of muscle weakness in temporal association with a diarrheal intestinal infection is always suspicious of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). GBS is characterized as an acute inflammatory polyneuroradiculopathy, mediated by cross-reacting autoantibodies and typically triggered by various infections, vaccinations or other causes. Hyponatremia can be associated with GBS and is usually seen in more severe cases. However, the presence of relevant hyponatremia in a case suspicious of GBS can lead to a diagnostic dilemma. We here describe an intriguing and initially misleading case of hyponatremia mimicking GBS, where repeated and thorough electrophysiology was the key to the correct diagnosis. Case presentation A 33 years-old man with a history of severe alcohol dependence and schizophrenia developed progressive muscle weakness in the course of a preceding episode of diarrhea. Neurological examination revealed a leg-accentuated tetraplegia with global areflexia. There was also a complex oculomotor dysfunction. Laboratory tests showed hyponatremia of 110 mM. Cerebrospinal-fluid analysis showed a normal cell count and cytological evaluation, protein concentration within the normal range. Electroneurography showed severe proximal nerve conduction block as evidenced by prolonged F-wave latency and distal nerve conduction block as evidenced by prolonged distal motor latencies and reduced motor nerve conduction velocities (NCV) in all peripheral nerves examined. GBS-associated ganglioside autoantibodies were absent. After compensation of hyponatremia alone, muscle weakness improved rapidly and nerve conduction velocity improved similarly. These dynamics are not consistent with GBS and unnecessary immunoglobulin treatment could be avoided. Conclusion Suspicion of GBS in the presence of relevant hyponatremia can be misleading as hyponatremia is able to mimic GBS. We demonstrate that repeated and accurate nerve conduction studies together with F-wave diagnostics is helpful to make the correct diagnosis. We discuss the mechanisms of the causes of hyponatremia in GBS and contrast these with the electropyhsiological changes caused by hyponatremia itself. The correct diagnosis will prevent the uncritical use of intravenous immunoglobulins and save unnecessary costs. Also, a possible aggravation of the hyponatremia by immunoglobulin treatment can be averted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Thorsten Lenhard
- Department of Neurology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Xu J, Li F, Xue Y. Acute hearing and visual loss caused by thiamine deficiency. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:285. [PMID: 37525097 PMCID: PMC10388443 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03337-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a devastating acute or subacute neurological disorder caused by thiamine deficiency. Wernicke encephalopathy is characterized by the triad of ocular signs, cerebellar dysfunction, and confusion. Visual loss and hearing loss are less common findings in WE. Here, we report a case of Wernicke encephalopathy in a nonalcoholic liver cirrhosis patient who presented with acute bilateral deafness and bilateral blindness. CASE PRESENTATION: A 60-year-old Chinese man presented with a history of bilateral blindness and bilateral hypoacousia for 3 days. He had a history of liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis C virus infection and did not have a habit of alcohol consumption. Ophthalmologic and otologic examinations showed no obvious abnormalities. MRI findings revealed symmetric fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensities in the bilateral medial dorsal thalamus, periventricular region around the third ventricle and tectum, and dorsal medulla oblongata. One day after hospitalization, the patient developed a mild coma. Based on the laboratory and neuroimaging findings, we diagnosed the patient with Wernicke encephalopathy. He soon regained consciousness after administration of thiamine. Both his visual acuity and his hearing function improved gradually. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that Wernicke encephalopathy can present with bilateral blindness and bilateral deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junrong Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, People's Republic of China.
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjie Xue
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, People's Republic of China
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He H, Wang K, Wang Y, Luo J. Urinary incontinence as a main clinical manifestation of early stage Wernicke's encephalopathy: a case report. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1157806. [PMID: 37292136 PMCID: PMC10246772 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1157806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin B1. While there have been many reported cases of WE in the literature, there are few reports on the early stages of the disorder. In this report, we present a case of WE with urinary incontinence as the main clinical manifestation. A 62-year-old female patient was admitted to the hospital due to intestinal obstruction and did not receive vitamin B1 supplements for 10 days. Three days after her operation, she developed urinary incontinence. She also had mild mental symptoms, such as a little indifference. After consultation with a urologist and neurologist, the patient was immediately given intramuscular vitamin B1 at a dosage of 200 mg/day. After 3 days of supplementing with vitamin B1, her urinary incontinence and mental symptoms improved and were completely resolved after 7 days of treatment. Surgeons should be aware that when long-term fasting patients have urinary incontinence, it may be a symptom of WE, and they should be supplied with vitamin B1 in a timely manner without extensive examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitian He
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kebing Wang
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Urology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinbin Luo
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Oudman E, Wijnia JW, Bidesie J, Al-Hassaan Z, Laenen S, Jong-Tjien-Fa AV. Young Nonalcoholic Wernicke Encephalopathy Patient Achieves Remission Following Prolonged Thiamine Treatment and Cognitive Rehabilitation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082901. [PMID: 37109239 PMCID: PMC10143616 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Wernicke encephalopathy (WE), a neurological emergency commonly associated with alcohol use disorder, results from a severe deficiency of vitamin B1. If left untreated, patients either succumb to the illness or develop chronic Korsakoff's syndrome (KS). Recently, an increasing number of nonalcoholic WE case studies have been published, highlighting a lack of understanding of malnutrition-related disorders among high-functioning patients. We present the case of a 26 year old female who developed life-threatening WE after COVID-19-complicated obesity surgery. She experienced the full triad of WE symptoms, including eye-movement disorders, delirium, and ataxia, and suffered for over 70 days before receiving her initial WE diagnosis. Late treatment resulted in progression of WE symptoms. Despite the severity, the patient achieved remission of some of the symptoms in the post-acute phase due to prolonged parenteral thiamine injections and intensive specialized rehabilitation designed for young traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. The rehabilitation resulted in gradual remission of amnesia symptomatology, mainly increasing her autonomy. The late recognition of this case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and prompt, targeted intervention in the management of nonalcoholic WE, as well as underscores the potential for positive outcomes after delayed treatment through intensive cognitive rehabilitation in specialized treatment centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Oudman
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Slingedael Korsakoff Expertise Center, Lelie Care Group, 3086 EZ Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan W Wijnia
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Slingedael Korsakoff Expertise Center, Lelie Care Group, 3086 EZ Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janice Bidesie
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Slingedael Korsakoff Expertise Center, Lelie Care Group, 3086 EZ Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Zyneb Al-Hassaan
- Daan Theeuwes Center for Intensive Neurorehabilitation, 3447 GN Woerden, The Netherlands
| | - Sascha Laenen
- Daan Theeuwes Center for Intensive Neurorehabilitation, 3447 GN Woerden, The Netherlands
| | - Amy V Jong-Tjien-Fa
- Daan Theeuwes Center for Intensive Neurorehabilitation, 3447 GN Woerden, The Netherlands
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Singer E, Bhatt K, Prashad A, Rudman L, Gadelmoula I, Michel G. Diagnosis and Management of Marchiafava-Bignami Disease, a Rare Neurological Complication of Long-term Alcohol Abuse. Discoveries (Craiova) 2023; 11:e168. [PMID: 37559750 PMCID: PMC10406581 DOI: 10.15190/d.2023.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Marchiafava Bignami disease (MBD) is a neurological disorder characterized by myelin degeneration and tissue necrosis within the central nervous system. This condition predominantly afflicts individuals with chronic alcohol abuse and malnutrition. The most distinctive pathological feature of MBD is the necrotic degeneration specifically observed in the corpus callosum; however, emerging evidence also indicates the potential involvement of other brain regions. The main pathophysiological mechanisms involve alcohol consumption, which leads to thiamine depletion and disrupts various metabolic pathways. This, in turn, hinders myelin synthesis and impairs signal transmission, resulting in a wide range of symptoms and signs. MBD can manifest in different stages, including acute, subacute, and chronic, each with varying severity. Diagnosing MBD can be challenging due to its presenting symptoms being nonspecific. In the era preceding the development of sophisticated imaging methodologies, the diagnosis of MBD was primarily established through postmortem examination conducted during autopsies. However, with a detailed medical history and imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), it is now possible to diagnose MBD and differentiate it from other diseases with similar clinical presentations. MRI is considered the gold standard for visualizing lesions in the corpus callosum and other affected areas. Also, positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) could show brain damage in the corpus callosum associated with MBD. MRI-diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) detects early lesions, while diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) investigates clinical manifestations and recovery. Poor prognostic indicators for MBD include extensive cerebral cortex involvement and severe disturbances in consciousness. Differential diagnosis involves ruling out other alcohol-related disorders, such as neoplastic conditions, Wernicke's encephalopathy, and multiple sclerosis, among others, through careful evaluation. The therapeutic strategies for the management of MBD are currently lacking definitive establishment; however, available evidence indicates that targeted interventions have the potential to induce amelioration. Corticosteroids offer prospective advantages in addressing brain edema, demyelination, and inflammation; research findings present a heterogeneous outcome pattern. Notably, thiamine treatment reduces the likelihood of unfavorable consequences, particularly when administered promptly, and thus is endorsed as the primary therapeutic approach for MBD. This review will highlight this rare disease that many healthcare providers might not be familiar with. By understanding its clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, imaging, and management, medical providers might better identify and diagnose MBD. Raising awareness about this condition can lead to better prevention, early detection, and timely intervention.
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Listabarth S, Vyssoki B, Marculescu R, Gleiss A, Groemer M, Trojer A, Harrer C, Weber S, König D. Can thiamine substitution restore cognitive function in alcohol use disorder? Alcohol Alcohol 2023; 58:315-323. [PMID: 36935203 PMCID: PMC10168713 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS While clinical consequences of thiamine deficiency in alcohol use disorder (AUD) are severe, evidence-based recommendations on dosage, type of administration and duration of thiamine substitution (TS), and its' target levels remain sparse. This study aimed to compare the effect of two best practice TS regimens on thiamine blood levels (i.e. thiamine pyrophosphate, TPP) and cognitive function. METHODS In 50 patients undergoing in-patient alcohol-withdrawal treatment, TPP levels were determined at baseline and end of weeks 1, 2 and 8 following administration of oral TS (3 × 100 mg/day for 7 days followed by 1 × 100 mg/day thereafter) either with or without preceding intravenous TS (3 × 100 mg/day for 5 days). An extensive psychiatric assessment was conducted at baseline, including an evaluation of AUD severity and depressive symptoms. Additionally, cognitive function and depressive symptoms were repeatedly evaluated. RESULTS Relevant increases (mean increase by 100.2 nmol/l [CI 76.5-123.8], P < 0.001) in peripheral blood TPP levels were observed in all patients at the end of weeks 1 and 2. Furthermore, no relevant difference between the intravenous and the oral group was found (average difference between increases: 2.3 nmol/l, P = 0.912). Importantly, an association between the 'extent of the response' to TS and the performance in a memory task was revealed in secondary analyses. CONCLUSION TS was associated with improving cognitive function in patients with AUD, independently of the substitution regime. Thus, in clinical practice, oral TS might be a sufficient but obligatory medication to prevent cognitive decline in AUD in the absence of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Listabarth
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Benjamin Vyssoki
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Rodrig Marculescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Gleiss
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics and Intelligent Systems, Institute of Clinical Biometrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Magdalena Groemer
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Armin Trojer
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Harrer
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sabine Weber
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel König
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Arivoli K, Benvenuto A, Stucken E. A Case of Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Wernicke Encephalopathy. Laryngoscope 2023; 133:1492-1494. [PMID: 36762433 DOI: 10.1002/lary.30606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Extremely rare cases of Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) can involve sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Here, we present a 46-year-old female with SNHL and clinical and radiologic suspicion for WE. After initiating thiamine therapy, the patient experienced robust improvement. Laryngoscope, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumaran Arivoli
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Emily Stucken
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Silva AR, Almeida-Xavier S, Lopes M, Soares-Fernandes JP, Sousa F, Varanda S. Is there a time window for MRI in Wernicke encephalopathy - a decade of experience from a tertiary hospital. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:703-708. [PMID: 36335281 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06477-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine deficiency. Despite its low sensitivity, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most useful diagnostic technique. Our aim was to investigate whether the timing of the imaging study, and thiamine replacement can influence brain MRI findings in these patients. METHODS Retrospective observational study of hospitalized patients between January/2008 and December/2020 with a clinical diagnosis of WE. Data from clinical presentation, diagnostic features, therapeutic approach, and outcomes were collected. RESULTS We identified 41 patients (55 ± 13.3 years) with WE. Brain MRI was performed in 36 patients, and one third had T2/FLAIR hyperintensities suggestive of WE. We found an association between a history of poor diet and periventricular hyperintensities (p = 0.023), especially on the ventral surface of the thalamus and the periaqueductal region. It was found that the odds of having a typical imaging of WE decreased by 5.3% for each additional unit (100 mg) of thiamine administered (p = 0.046) (95% CI [0.89, 0.99]). On the other hand, the number of days from clinical presentation was not found to be a viable predictor (p = 0.254) (95% CI [0.88, 1.03]) Recovery was positively correlated with the total dose of thiamine received until discharge (p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS MRI hyperintensities seem to be dependent on the timing of thiamine correction and, particularly, on the thiamine dosage prescribed at admission. Nevertheless, thiamine replacement should not be delayed, as its timely prescription is associated with a better prognosis at discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Silva
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal.
| | | | | | | | - Filipa Sousa
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
| | - Sara Varanda
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
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Uchida N, Ishida M, Yoshioka A, Sato I, Ito H, Onizawa N, Sato R, Mizunuma N, Onishi H. Can depressed cancer patients with a borderline thiamine concentration develop deficiency within a short time period? Palliat Support Care 2023;:1-4. [PMID: 36683386 DOI: 10.1017/S1478951522001808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increasing reports of thiamine deficiency (TD) among cancer patients, there remain some patients with borderline thiamine concentrations (BTC). However, it is unclear whether such patients subsequently develop TD. METHODS Here, we report cases of cancer patients progressing to TD within a short time period after presentation with BTC (24-28 ng/ml). RESULTS CASE 1 A 49-year-old female with lung cancer. During treatment for depression, the patient showed a decreased appetite, and a blood sample revealed BTC (25 ng/ml). Fourteen days later, she reported a continued loss of appetite, and despite the absence of the 3 classical signs of Wernicke encephalopathy (WE), additional testing showed a thiamine level of 23 ng/ml, leading to a diagnosis of TD. CASE 2 A 65-year-old female developed depression during chemotherapy for angiosarcoma. Her blood sample revealed BTC (25 ng/ml). Seven days later, despite the absence of the classical signs of WE, a further testing revealed a thiamine level of 20 ng/ml. CASE 3 A 41-year-old female developed depression during chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. No loss of appetite was observed, but a blood sample revealed BTC (25 ng/ml). Seven days later, despite the absence of the classical signs of WE or decreased appetite, further testing revealed a thiamine level of 19 ng/ml. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Depressed cancer patients with BTC may develop TD within a short time frame. To prevent TD, health-care professionals should maintain an awareness of its potential and the need for regular testing of thiamine level or prophylactic replacement therapy.
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Hidaka M, Kumamoto M, Suenaga T, Itsuji A, Kanazawa Y, Goto S, Takaba H, Kitazono T. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome in a Young Adult on Dialysis Who Showed Bilateral Ganglia Lesions. Intern Med 2023; 62:113-118. [PMID: 35598991 PMCID: PMC9876722 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.8910-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A 30-year-old man admitted with renal dysfunction (serum creatinine, 8.19 mg/dL) was diagnosed with immunoglobulin A nephritis through a renal biopsy. He was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy and urgent hemodialysis, and eventually, he underwent maintenance hemodialysis. On day 108, he developed amnesia. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed bilateral basal ganglia lesions. Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) was diagnosed based on decreased serum thiamine concentration (12.8 μg/dL; reference range, 24-66 μg/dL). Thiamine replacement therapy was initiated, but the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome persisted. Careful monitoring of thiamine is required in patients undergoing dialysis. In addition, patients with WE may exhibit bilateral basal ganglia lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaoki Hidaka
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Masaya Kumamoto
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Suenaga
- Department of Nephrology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Ayaka Itsuji
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Yuka Kanazawa
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Seiji Goto
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Hitonori Takaba
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine and Neurology, Kyushu Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Japan
| | - Takanari Kitazono
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan
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Kuzume D, Morimoto Y, Yamasaki M, Hosomi N. [ Wernicke encephalopathy with lesions in the bilateral abducens nuclei: a case report]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2022; 62:869-872. [PMID: 36288967 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
A 35-year-old Japanese man had been treated for alcoholism until 6 months before coming to our hospital, after which he discontinued treatment for alcoholism. He noticed dizziness from two weeks ago. He visited our hospital because his dizziness was worsened and he noticed diplopia from two days ago. Physical examination revealed bilateral abducens nerve palsy, decreased limb tendon reflex, and ataxia. His blood vitamin B1 level was 16 ng/ml (normal range 24-66 ng/ml). FLAIR images on brain MRI showed high signal intensity lesions in the bilateral abducens nuclei and mammillary body. We diagnosed him as Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) with lesions in the bilateral abducens nuclei. Treatment with thiamine rapidly resulted in improvement of his neurological symptoms and MRI findings. He was discharged from our department on the 10th hospitalization day. Previous reports have shown that abducens nerve palsy and horizontal gaze evoked nystagmus may occur in the early state of WE. This case report highlights the importance to comprehend the atypical MRI findings of WE to treat a patient at the early stage.
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Wijnia JW. A Clinician's View of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. J Clin Med 2022; 11. [PMID: 36431232 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to improve recognition and treatment of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. It is well known that Korsakoff syndrome is a chronic amnesia resulting from unrecognized or undertreated Wernicke encephalopathy and is caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. The clinical presentation of thiamine deficiency includes loss of appetite, dizziness, tachycardia, and urinary bladder retention. These symptoms can be attributed to anticholinergic autonomic dysfunction, as well as confusion or delirium, which is part of the classic triad of Wernicke encephalopathy. Severe concomitant infections including sepsis of unknown origin are common during the Wernicke phase. These infections can be prodromal signs of severe thiamine deficiency, as has been shown in select case descriptions which present infections and lactic acidosis. The clinical symptoms of Wernicke delirium commonly arise within a few days before or during hospitalization and may occur as part of a refeeding syndrome. Wernicke encephalopathy is mostly related to alcohol addiction, but can also occur in other conditions, such as bariatric surgery, hyperemesis gravidarum, and anorexia nervosa. Alcohol related Wernicke encephalopathy may be identified by the presence of a delirium in malnourished alcoholic patients who have trouble walking. The onset of non-alcohol-related Wernicke encephalopathy is often characterized by vomiting, weight loss, and symptoms such as visual complaints due to optic neuropathy in thiamine deficiency. Regarding thiamine therapy, patients with hypomagnesemia may fail to respond to thiamine. This may especially be the case in the context of alcohol withdrawal or in adverse side effects of proton pump inhibitors combined with diuretics. Clinician awareness of the clinical significance of Wernicke delirium, urinary bladder retention, comorbid infections, refeeding syndrome, and hypomagnesemia may contribute to the recognition and treatment of the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
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Clergue-Duval V, Coulbault L, Questel F, Cabé N, Laniepce A, Delage C, Boudehent C, Bloch V, Segobin S, Naassila M, Pitel AL, Vorspan F. Alcohol Withdrawal Is an Oxidative Stress Challenge for the Brain: Does It Pave the Way toward Severe Alcohol-Related Cognitive Impairment? Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:2078. [PMID: 36290801 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11102078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use is a leading cause of mortality, brain morbidity, neurological complications and minor to major neurocognitive disorders. Alcohol-related neurocognitive disorders are consecutive to the direct effect of chronic and excessive alcohol use, but not only. Indeed, patients with severe alcohol use disorders (AUD) associated with pharmacological dependence suffer from repetitive events of alcohol withdrawal (AW). If those AW are not managed by adequate medical and pharmacological treatment, they may evolve into severe AW, or be complicated by epileptic seizure or delirium tremens (DT). In addition, we suggest that AW favors the occurrence of Wernicke’s encephalopathy (WE) in patients with known or unknown thiamine depletion. We reviewed the literature on oxidative stress as a core mechanism in brain suffering linked with those conditions: AW, epileptic seizure, DT and WE. Thus, we propose perspectives to further develop research projects aiming at better identifying oxidative stress brain damage related to AW, assessing the effect of repetitive episodes of AW, and their long-term cognitive consequences. This research field should develop neuroprotective strategies during AW itself or during the periwithdrawal period. This could contribute to the prevention of severe alcohol-related brain damage and cognitive impairments.
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Erick M. Gestational malnutrition, hyperemesis gravidarum, and Wernicke's encephalopathy: What is missing? Nutr Clin Pract 2022; 37:1273-1290. [PMID: 36250744 DOI: 10.1002/ncp.10913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), or the severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, is one of the most dreaded complications of gestation, affecting between 1.5% and 3.0% of pregnant women. From the late 1800s to the mid-1980s, the etiology was frequently cited to have psychological and/or-later-perhaps hormonal origins, which have numbered at least 10. Current research has unearthed a genetic basis for HG that implicates growth differentiation factor 15, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7, and hormone receptors (namely, glial cell line-derived neurogenic factor family receptor alpha-like and the progesterone receptor). Whatever the origins of this disease, it has caused immeasurable physiological and psychological damage to women, their fetuses, and their families. The psychological trauma includes a high rate of suicidal ideation as well as posttraumatic stress disorder. Whereas the healthcare costs are substantial for the mother with HG, the lifetime costs to the neonate include that which accompanies reduced employment earnings related to cognitive compromise. Another devastating outcome of severe HG can be Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE), which has a high fetal and maternal mortality rate. Our study explored 18 current reports of HG and WE. We highlighted additional presenting features we believe also accompany, and sometimes replace, the classically taught triad components of WE: ataxia, confabulation, and nystagmus. We agree with the conclusion made by Sheehan and Ironside in 1939 that thiamin alone may not reverse WE, and we offer possible explanations. Lastly, we offer suggestions for remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Erick
- Department of Nutrition, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Zhang X, Arnone V, Ackerman K, Al-issa F. Vertigo-Associated Vomiting: Acute Presentation of Thiamine Deficiency in Intestinal Failure. JPGN Rep 2022; 3:e226. [PMID: 37168633 PMCID: PMC10158385 DOI: 10.1097/pg9.0000000000000226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Thiamine deficiency can manifest as Wernicke encephalopathy, with the classic clinical triad of altered mental status, nystagmus, and ataxia. Although a rare diagnosis in pediatric patients within developed countries, gastrointestinal disorders that impair nutritional intake and absorption can place patients at higher risk. Rapid diagnosis and early empiric treatment of Wernicke encephalopathy is paramount due to high risk of mortality and long-term morbidity. We present a patient with intestinal failure who developed thiamine deficiency following weaning off parenteral nutrition with acute onset of vertigo-associated vomiting. In the absence of consensus guidelines for treatment dosing and duration, in both adult and pediatric populations, we review prior pediatric cases and propose a strategy for dosing with symptom-guided step-up approach to maximize treatment efficacy in a time-conscious manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Zhang
- From the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Vincent Arnone
- West Virginia University, School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Morgantown, WV
| | - Kimberly Ackerman
- From the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Feras Al-issa
- From the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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Ding LM, Deng LS, Qian JJ, Liu G, Zhou L, Zheng SS. Clinical analysis of Wernicke encephalopathy after liver transplantation. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2022:S1499-3872(22)00181-3. [PMID: 35909062 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is an acute neurological disease resulting from vitamin B1 deficiency, and there are only very few case reports of WE after liver transplantation. The present study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, etiology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features, treatment and prognosis of patients with WE after liver transplantation. METHODS Twenty-three patients with WE after liver transplantation from the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital between January 2011 and December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS Among the 23 patients diagnosed with WE after liver transplantation, 6 (26%) had a classic triad of impaired consciousness, oculomotor palsy and ataxia, 17 (74%) had two features. The misdiagnosis rate was 65%. After treatment with high-dose vitamin B1, 19 (83%) patients showed improvement, whereas 4 showed no improvement, including 3 with residual short-term memory impairments and 1 with residual spatial and temporal disorientation and ataxia. CONCLUSIONS The misdiagnosis rate is high in the early stage of WE, and the prognosis is closely associated with whether WE is diagnosed early and treated timely. High-dose glucose or glucocorticoids can trigger WE and cannot be administered before vitamin B1 treatment. Vitamin B1 is suggested to be used as a prophylactic treatment for patients with WE after liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Min Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Li-Shan Deng
- Culture and Sports Center for the Disabled of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Jun-Jie Qian
- Division of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Transplantation, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Shu-Sen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China; NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310003, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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Zhang Y, Wang L, Jiang J, Chen WY. Non-alcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy in an esophageal cancer patient receiving radiotherapy: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:5810-5815. [PMID: 35979132 PMCID: PMC9258394 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i17.5810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wernicke encephalopathy is a rare but potentially fatal adverse event caused by thiamine deficiency. Reports of non-alcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy due to malignancy are scarce in the literature, with those reported mainly being on haematological cancer, followed by gastrointestinal cancer. As a result, there is considerable under-recognition and delay in the diagnosis and treatment of Wernicke encephalopathy in oncology departments. To our knowledge, there has been no report of Wernicke encephalopathy in a patient with esophageal cancer while receiving radiotherapy.
CASE SUMMARY A 64-year-old man presented to the oncology outpatient clinic with a history of dysphagia for 2 mo, and was diagnosed with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (stage IIIB). Radiotherapy was initiated to alleviate dysphagia due to malignant esophageal stenosis; however, the patient exhibited consciousness disturbances starting on day 10 of radiotherapy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging indicated the development of Wernicke encephalopathy. Subsequent treatment with thiamine led to rapid improvement in the patient’s neurological symptoms.
CONCLUSION Wernicke encephalopathy may develop in non-alcoholic patients undergoing radiotherapy for esophageal cancer. Early diagnosis and sufficient thiamine supplementation during radiotherapy are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- Department of General Practice, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of General Practice, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jin Jiang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Wen-Yu Chen
- Department of Respiration, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang Province, China
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de Sire R, Rispo A, Compare D, Tortora F, Nardone G, Castiglione F. Wernicke Encephalopathy in Ulcerative Colitis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2022; 28:e70-e71. [PMID: 35512144 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izab296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto de Sire
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Rispo
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Debora Compare
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Tortora
- Radiology Unit, Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Gerardo Nardone
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Castiglione
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Onizawa N, Ishida M, Uchida N, Sato I, Yoshioka A, Ito H, Onishi H. Is a decrease in activities of daily living in the elderly irreversible? A case report of Wernicke encephalopathy in home medical care. J Gen Fam Med 2022; 23:180-182. [PMID: 35509342 PMCID: PMC9062558 DOI: 10.1002/jgf2.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The patient was an 83-year-old male who, after being hospitalized for 70 days for suffocation due to aspiration, was provided with home medical care (HMC) as his physical condition did not allow him to climb stairs. Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) was suspected based on his disorientation and a continued loss of appetite. This diagnosis was supported by abnormal serum thiamine and the disappearance of delirium after thiamine administration. In addition, he became able to use stairs. Patients who receive HMC should undergo active screening and receive treatment with WE in mind.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayumi Ishida
- Department of Psycho‐oncologySaitama Medical University International Medical CenterHidaka CitySaitamaJapan
| | - Nozomu Uchida
- Department of General MedicineOgano Central HospitalOgano TownSaitamaJapan
| | - Izumi Sato
- Department of Clinical EpidemiologyGraduate School of Biomedical SciencesNagasaki UniversityNagasaki CityNagasakiJapan
| | - Akira Yoshioka
- Department of Medical OncologyMitsubishi Kyoto HospitalKyoto CityKyotoJapan
| | - Hiroshi Ito
- Department of General MedicineIto Internal Medicine and Pediatric ClinicFukuoka CityFukuokaJapan
| | - Hideki Onishi
- Department of Psycho‐oncologySaitama Medical University International Medical CenterHidaka CitySaitamaJapan
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Nikjoo A, Rashid H, Chung R, Sadat MA. A rare case of Wernicke encephalopathy in stage IV gastric cancer. Neurocase 2022; 28:123-125. [PMID: 35188084 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2022.2041043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
A 38-year-old male with stage IV gastric adenocarcinoma presented with abdominal pain, nausea, bilious non-bloody vomiting, and lethargy. He was found to have an ileus and was treated appropriately with bowel rest and nasogastric tube decompression. However, the patient was also noted to have confusion and nystagmus. While he was abstinent from alcohol for 20 years, he was found to have Wernicke Encephalopathy (WE) as a result of malnutrition from the underlying malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arya Nikjoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood, Kingwood, TX, USA
| | - Hytham Rashid
- Department of Internal Medicine, HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood, Kingwood, TX, USA
| | - Randy Chung
- Texas Digestive Disease Consultants, Kingwood, TX, USA
| | - Mir Ali Sadat
- Department of Internal Medicine, HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood, Kingwood, TX, USA
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Trebach J, Hoffman RS. A response to Zhou et al, regarding thiamine supplementation in altered mental status. Hosp Pract (1995) 2022; 50:188. [PMID: 35098844 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2022.2036554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Trebach
- Emergency Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.,Division of Medical Toxicology, New York City Regional Poison Control Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - R S Hoffman
- Emergency Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.,Division of Medical Toxicology, New York City Regional Poison Control Center, New York, NY, USA
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Rival M, Renard D, Thouvenot E, Ion I. "Atypical" atypical Wernicke encephalopathy with axonopathy due to disulfiram intoxication. Acta Neurol Belg 2022:10.1007/s13760-021-01857-1. [PMID: 35006523 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-021-01857-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manon Rival
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nîmes Hôpital Caremeau, Nîmes University Hospital, 4 Rue du Pr Debré, Nîmes Cedex 4, 30029, Nîmes, France
| | - Dimitri Renard
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nîmes Hôpital Caremeau, Nîmes University Hospital, 4 Rue du Pr Debré, Nîmes Cedex 4, 30029, Nîmes, France
| | - Eric Thouvenot
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nîmes Hôpital Caremeau, Nîmes University Hospital, 4 Rue du Pr Debré, Nîmes Cedex 4, 30029, Nîmes, France
- IGF, CNRS, INSERM, Univ. Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Ioana Ion
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nîmes Hôpital Caremeau, Nîmes University Hospital, 4 Rue du Pr Debré, Nîmes Cedex 4, 30029, Nîmes, France.
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Novo-Veleiro I, Herrera-Flores J, Rosón-Hernández B, Medina-García JA, Muga R, Fernández-Solá J, Martín-González MC, Seco-Hernández E, Suárez-Cuervo C, Mateos-Díaz AM, Monte-Secades R, Machado-Prieto B, Puerta-Louro R, Prada-González C, Fernández-Rial Á, Sabio-Repiso P, Vázquez-Vigo R, Antolí-Royo AC, Gomila-Grange A, Felipe-Pérez NC, Sanvisens-Bergé A, Antúnez-Jorge E, Fernández-Rodríguez CM, Alvela-Suárez L, Fidalgo-Navarro A, Castro J, Polvorosa-Gómez MA, Del Valle-Sánchez M, López-Castro J, Chamorro AJ, Marcos M. Alcoholic Liver Disease Among Patients with Wernicke Encephalopathy: A Multicenter Observational Study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 230:109186. [PMID: 34864357 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND data regarding the association between Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) are scarce in spite of alcohol consumption being the main risk factor for WE. AIMS to describe the frequency of ALD in a cohort of patients diagnosed with WE and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and to compare the characteristics of WE patients with and without ALD. METHODS we conducted an observational study in 21 centers through a nationwide registry of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine. WE Caine criteria were applied and demographic, clinical, and outcome variables were analyzed. RESULTS 434 patients were included in the study, of which 372 were men (85.7%), and the mean age was 55 ± 11.8 years. ALD was present in 162 (37.3%) patients and we found a higher percentage of cases with tremor, flapping and hallucinations in the ALD group. A total of 22 patients (5.0%) died during admission (7.4% with ALD vs 3.7% without ALD; P = 0.087). Among the ALD patients, a relationship between mortality and the presence of anemia (Odds ratio [OR]=4.6 Confidence interval [CI]95% 1.1-18.8; P = 0.034), low level of consciousness (OR=4.9 CI95% 1.1-21.2; P = 0.031) and previous diagnosis of cancer (OR=10.3 CI95% 1.8-59.5; P = 0.009) was detected. Complete recovery was achieved by 27 patients with ALD (17.8%) and 71 (27.8%) without ALD (P = 0.030). CONCLUSION the association of WE and ALD in patients with AUDs is frequent and potentially linked to differences in clinical presentation and to poorer prognosis, as compared to alcoholic patients with WE without ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Novo-Veleiro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Javier Herrera-Flores
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | | | - Roberto Muga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Elena Seco-Hernández
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Ourense, Ourense, Spain
| | | | - Ana-M Mateos-Díaz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Virgen del Puerto, Plasencia, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Rafael Monte-Secades
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti, Lugo, Spain
| | - Begoña Machado-Prieto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | | | | | - Álvaro Fernández-Rial
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | - Rocío Vázquez-Vigo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Ana-C Antolí-Royo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Complejo Asistencial de Ávila, Ávila, Spain
| | - Aina Gomila-Grange
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Arantza Sanvisens-Bergé
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona. Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Lucía Alvela-Suárez
- Department of Internal Medicine, HM Rosaleda Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | - Joaquín Castro
- Hospital Santa Bárbara, Puerto Llano, Ciudad-Real, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Antonio-J Chamorro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Miguel Marcos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca-IBSAL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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Ishida M, Uchida N, Yoshioka A, Sato I, Hamaguchi T, Horita Y, Mihara Y, Onishi H. Wernicke encephalopathy in a caregiver: A serious physical issue resulting from stress in a family member caring for an advanced cancer patient. Palliat Support Care 2021;:1-3. [PMID: 34809731 DOI: 10.1017/S1478951521001784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It is well known that the burden on the families of cancer patient extends across many aspects, but there have been no reports of family members developing delirium due to the burden of caring for a cancer patient. METHODS We reported a caregiver who developed Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) while caring for a family member with advanced cancer. RESULTS The subject was a 71-year-old woman who had been caring for her husband, diagnosed with gastric cancer and liver metastases, for 5 months. She visited the "caregivers' clinic" after referral by an oncologist who was worried about a deterioration in her mental condition that had appeared several weeks previously. The woman had a history of diabetes mellitus. Some giddiness was observed and, based on her inability to answer questions, her level of consciousness was checked and some disorientation was observed. She was diagnosed with delirium. A blood sample was collected to investigate the cause of the delirium, but the test data showed no hypoglycemia. Her appetite had declined since her husband was diagnosed with cancer. Thiamine deficiency was suspected as thiamine stores in the body are depleted within about 18 days and her loss of appetite had continued for 5 months. On intravenous injection of 100 mg of thiamine, her consciousness level was returned to normal in 1 h. A diagnosis of WE was supported by the patient's abnormally low serum thiamine level. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESULTS The family members of cancer patients may develop a loss of appetite due to the burden of caring, resulting in WE. When providing care for signs of distress in family members, it is necessary to pay attention not only to the psychological aspects but also to their level of consciousness and physical aspects, particularly the possibility of serious illness resulting from reduced nutritional status.
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Peck NM, Bania TC, Chu J. Low rates of thiamine prescribing in adult patients with alcohol-related diagnoses in the emergency department. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse 2021; 47:704-710. [PMID: 33780650 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2021.1889575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is associated with thiamine deficiency and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS). Thiamine supplementation for the prevention of WKS in patients with suspected AUD in the Emergency Department (ED) is generally recommended. As alcohol-related diagnoses are frequent reasons for visits to EDs, ED thiamine prescribing practices are relevant to the overall management and prevention of WKS in patients with AUD.Objective: To determine the prescription rates of thiamine to patients with alcohol-related diagnoses in the ED.Methods: This was a retrospective chart review conducted at two New York City urban teaching hospitals from January 1 to December 31, 2017. All patients 18 years or older who were given an alcohol-related diagnosis (all F10 ICD-10-CM codes) upon disposition were included. Collected data included details of thiamine prescribing practices, patient demographics and patient disposition.Results: A total of 7,529 patient visits with an alcohol-related diagnosis were identified. The overall median age of included patients was 44; 5747 (76.3%) patient visits were by men; 310 (4.1%) patient visits resulted in admission. Out of all patient visits, thiamine was ordered during 167 (2.2%) visits, with thiamine administered parenterally during 129 (77.2%) visits and orally in 38 (22.8%) visits. Out of patient visits specifically associated with an F10.2 (Alcohol Dependence) diagnosis, thiamine was ordered during 105 (17.8%) visits.Conclusion: We found a very low rate of thiamine prescribing during patient visits associated with alcohol-related diagnoses. This may be a missed opportunity to reduce morbidity and mortality among AUD ED patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Peck
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai West Hospital, Mt Sinai Morningside Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Theodore C Bania
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai West Hospital, Mt Sinai Morningside Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jason Chu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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42
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Zuccoli G. The importance of knowing the typical and atypical imaging findings of Wernicke encephalopathy. Acta Neurol Belg 2021; 121:1399-1400. [PMID: 32965649 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-020-01482-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Zuccoli
- Program for the Study of Neurodevelopment in Rare Disorders (NDRD), University of Pittsburgh, Children Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Kubota
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Comprehensive Medicine 1, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Hori
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Comprehensive Medicine 1, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Sugawara
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Comprehensive Medicine 1, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Japan
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Abstract
The review article provides a definition and classification of different nystagmus types, a comparative description of the central and peripheral vestibular nystagmus. The pathogenetic patterns of up-beating and down-beating nystagmus are accurately described. The features of nystagmus formation in various diseases are discussed, such as Wernicke encephalopathy, Arnold-Chiari anomaly, spinocerebellar ataxia and vestibular migraine. The authors provide their own data on oculomotor disorders in 100 patients with vestibular migraine and migraine with a brain stem aura. This article considers approaches to treatment: surgical and conservative. In conclusion, was noted the possibility of differentiating the central and peripheral vestibular nystagmus by means of clinical study. As well, the differences between vertical nystagmus associated with organic lesions of the brain stem or cerebellum and transient nystagmus with vestibular migraine are highlighted. The authors note the need for in-depth studies of nystagmus in vestibular migraine patients and methods of dealing with it.
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Affiliation(s)
- I D Stulin
- Yevdokimov Moscow State Medical and Dental University, Moscow, Russia
| | - M V Tardov
- Sverzhevskiy Otorhinolaryngology Healthcare Research Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - N L Kunel'skaya
- Sverzhevskiy Otorhinolaryngology Healthcare Research Institute, Moscow, Russia.,Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - M A Chugunova
- Sverzhevskiy Otorhinolaryngology Healthcare Research Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - E V Bajbakova
- Sverzhevskiy Otorhinolaryngology Healthcare Research Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - A V Boldin
- Sverzhevskiy Otorhinolaryngology Healthcare Research Institute, Moscow, Russia.,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Filin
- Sverzhevskiy Otorhinolaryngology Healthcare Research Institute, Moscow, Russia
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Rakotoambinina B, Hiffler L, Gomes F. Pediatric thiamine deficiency disorders in high-income countries between 2000 and 2020: a clinical reappraisal. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2021; 1498:57-76. [PMID: 34309858 PMCID: PMC9290709 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Often thought to be a nutritional issue limited to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), pediatric thiamine deficiency (PTD) is perceived as being eradicated or anecdotal in high-income countries (HICs). In HICs, classic beriberi cases in breastfed infants by thiamine-deficient mothers living in disadvantaged socioeconomic conditions are thought to be rare. This study aims to assess PTD in HICs in the 21st century. Literature searches were conducted to identify case reports of PTD observed in HICs and published between 2000 and 2020. The analyzed variables were age, country, underlying conditions, clinical manifestations of PTD, and response to thiamine supplementation. One hundred and ten articles were identified, totaling 389 PTD cases that were classified into four age groups: neonates, infants, children, and adolescents. Eleven categories of PTD-predisposing factors were identified, including genetic causes, lifestyle (diabetes, obesity, and excessive consumption of sweetened beverages), eating disorders, cancer, gastrointestinal disorders/surgeries, critical illness, and artificial nutrition. TD-associated hyperlactatemia and Wernicke encephalopathy were the most frequent clinical manifestations. The circumstances surrounding PTD in HICs differ from classic PTD observed in LMICs and this study delineates its mutiple predisposing factors. Further studies are required to estimate its magnitude. Awareness is of utmost importance in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Rakotoambinina
- Cellular Nutrition Research GroupLagny sur MarneFrance
- LRI Isotopic Medicine Physiology LabUniversity of AntananarivoAntananarivoMadagascar
| | | | - Filomena Gomes
- The New York Academy of SciencesNew YorkNew York
- NOVA Medical SchoolUniversidade NOVA de LisboaLisboaPortugal
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Ito H, Ishida M, Itami K, Yoshioka A, Sato I, Uchida N, Onizawa N, Onishi H. Wernicke encephalopathy in a lung cancer patient receiving home medical care. Palliat Support Care 2021; 19:501-3. [PMID: 34294180 DOI: 10.1017/S1478951521000900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cancer patients often want to spend their final days at home, and it is essential that general practitioners have knowledge of and technical skills related to cancer medicine and symptom relief. Recent clinical studies have revealed that Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is quite common in cancer patients. However, there have been no reports to date on WE in cancer patients undergoing home medical care. METHODS From a series of cancer patient undergoing home medical care, we reported a patient with lung cancer who developed WE. RESULTS An 84-year-old female with lung cancer undergoing home medical care developed an impaired mental state and an attention deficit. Her symptoms fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for delirium. WE was suspected as the patient's food intake had fallen from normal a month previously to somewhere between 50% or just a few mouthfuls. This diagnosis was supported by abnormal serum thiamine and the disappearance of delirium after thiamine administration. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESULTS When delirium occurs in cancer patients undergoing home treatment, it is necessary to suspect thiamine deficiency as a potential cause, as appropriate diagnosis and treatment can prevent irreversible brain-related sequelae.
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47
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Dams L, Krämer M. [Orientation disorder, ophthalmoplegia and ataxia in a 48-year-old male]. Internist (Berl) 2021. [PMID: 34170345 DOI: 10.1007/s00108-021-01065-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This case report concerns a 48-year-old male patient presenting the classic clinical picture of Wernicke encephalopathy with orientation disorder, ophthalmoplegia and ataxia. Wernicke encephalopathy is a neurological emergency that should be treated immediately with high-dose intravenous thiamine for a week, if suspected. Recognition of the disease in the emergency room is essential. Due to the limited compliance in patients with alcohol-use disorder, early diagnosis can be challenging.
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Wang Q, Charmchi Z, George IC. Restrictive diet in a patient with irritable bowel syndrome leading to Wernicke encephalopathy. BMC Gastroenterol 2021; 21:179. [PMID: 33879093 PMCID: PMC8056557 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-021-01758-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We present a case of a woman with a past medical history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and anxiety, who presents with ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and memory loss, characteristic of Wernicke encephalopathy. Case presentation A 64-year-old woman presented with double vision, unsteady gait and memory loss. These symptoms began after 3 months on an unfortified restricted diet, which she initiated to alleviate IBS symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated hyperintense T2-weighted signal in the dorsomedial aspect of bilateral thalami, periaqueductal grey matter and around the third ventricle. The patient’s visual symptoms improved significantly after thiamine supplementation, although her memory deficits persisted. Conclusion Although WE is often associated with chronic alcohol abuse, this case demonstrates the importance of recognizing WE in any patient with a restricted diet and subsequent timely initiation of thiamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Kings County Hospital Center, SUNY Downstate Medical Center and Maimonides Medical Center, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Zeinab Charmchi
- Department of Neurology, Kings County Hospital Center, SUNY Downstate Medical Center and Maimonides Medical Center, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Ilena C George
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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Self M, Signorelli J, Lasoff D, Lafree A, Coyne C, Hayden SR, Wardi G. A BERIBERI UNHEALTHY LATTE: ENCEPHALOPATHY AND SHOCK FROM SEVERE NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY. J Emerg Med 2021:S0736-4679(21)00196-7. [PMID: 33836911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thiamine deficiency is an uncommon cause of severe illness in the United States that can lead to significant morbidity because of high-output cardiac failure, peripheral neuropathy, and permanent neurologic impairment. We report the case of a middle-aged woman with extreme malnutrition caused by complications of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery who presented with signs and symptoms of severe thiamine deficiency and septic shock. CASE REPORT A 43-year-old woman who had undergone RYGB surgery and who had multiple complications presented to the emergency department with agitation, confusion, and lethargy. The physical examination revealed an obtunded woman appearing much older than her reported age with significant peripheral edema. She was hypoxemic, hypotensive, and febrile. The initial laboratory analysis revealed a serum lactate level above the measurable limit, a normal thyroid-stimulating hormone, and elevated levels of troponin and brain natriuretic peptide. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed high-output heart failure. The patient's family later revealed that for the past year her diet had consisted almost exclusively of frozen blended lattes. High doses of thiamine and folate were started. Her shock, hyperlactatemia, and respiratory failure resolved by hospital day 3 and her encephalopathy resolved soon thereafter. Why Should an Emergency Physician be Aware of This?: Thiamine deficiency is a rare but reversible cause of shock, heart failure, and encephalopathy. Identifying patients who are at risk for severe nutritional deficiencies may aid in more rapid treatment with relatively benign medications with little downside, in this case high-dose vitamin B1, and ultimately improve patient-oriented outcomes such as mortality, morbidity, and hospital length of stay.
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Branco de Oliveira MV, Irikura S, Lourenço FHB, Shinsato M, Irikura TCDB, Irikura RB, Albuquerque TVC, Shinsato VN, Orsatti VN, Fontanelli AM, Samegima DAG, Gonçalves MVM, Bernabé DG. Encephalopathy responsive to thiamine in severe COVID-19 patients. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 14:100252. [PMID: 33817670 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Encephalopathy is one of the most frequent neurological complications of severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Cytokine storm and sepsis, hypercatabolic states, the use of furosemide and dialytic therapy represent risk factors for thiamine deficiency and are also found in patients with severe COVID-19. In this retrospective case series, we report clinical and neurological findings of fifteen patients with COVID-19-associated Wernicke Encephalopathy (WE) and their response to treatment with intravenous thiamine. All patients had encephalopathy, with 67% displaying at least one additional sign of classic WE triad (ophthalmoparesis and ataxia). Two patients (13%) had the classic triad. All COVID-19 patients had significant improvement of the neurological manifestations between two to five days after intravenous thiamine administration. Eleven patients (73%) had good neurological outcome at hospital discharge and only two patients (13%) died. This case series suggests that thiamine deficiency may be an etiology of encephalopathy in severe COVID-19 patients and its treatment may represent a safety and low-cost response to reduce the neurological burden.
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