Which neurological condition is caused by thiamine deficiency and is often linked to chronic alcohol use?

• A. Wernicke encephalopathy
• B. Korsakoff syndrome
• C. Delirium tremens
• D. Hepatic encephalopathy

Answer: (A)

Thiamine deficiency disrupts brain energy production because thiamine is a critical cofactor for enzymes that metabolize glucose in the brain. In chronic alcohol use, poor nutrition and impaired thiamine utilization raise the risk of this deficiency. The condition caused by this deficiency and often linked to heavy drinking is Wernicke encephalopathy, an acute neurologic emergency. It typically presents with problems in eye movements (nystagmus or ophthalmoplegia), trouble with coordination (ataxia), and confusion, though not all symptoms need to be present right away. Early recognition and treatment with thiamine can reverse symptoms and prevent progression to Korsakoff syndrome, a chronic memory disorder that can follow if Wernicke is not treated. Other alcohol-related brain conditions include delirium tremens (withdrawal-related delirium) and hepatic encephalopathy (liver failure–related brain dysfunction), while Korsakoff syndrome is the long-term memory impairment that can develop after an untreated Wernicke episode. Prompt thiamine administration is important, and it should be given before glucose if there’s suspicion of deficiency to avoid worsening the condition.