Karsakoff Syndrome, or Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome, is a neurological disorder that is characterized by individuals' amnesia, disorientation, and eye problems.
The main causes of Karsakoff Syndrome are the lack of vitamin B1 and alcoholism, since alcohol impairs the absorption of vitamin B in the body. Cranial injuries, carbon monoxide inhalation, and viral infections can also cause this syndrome.
Karsakoff syndrome has a cure, but if there is no interruption of alcoholism, this disease can become fatal.
Symptoms of Karsakoff Syndrome
The main symptoms of Karsakoff Syndrome are partial or total loss of memory, paralysis of the eye muscles and uncontrolled muscle movements. Other symptoms may include:
- Rapid and uncontrollable movements of the eyes;
- Double vision;
- Bleeding in the eye;
- Strabismus;
- Walking slow and uncoordinated;
- Mental confusion;
- Hallucinations;
- Apathy;
- Difficulty in communicating.
The diagnosis of Korsakoff Syndrome is made through the analysis of the symptoms presented by the patient, blood tests, urinalysis, examination of the cerebrospinal fluid and magnetic resonance imaging.
Treatment of Korsakoff Syndrome
Treatment of Korsakoff Syndrome in acute attacks consists of ingestion of thiamine or vitamin B1 at the dose of 50-100 mg by injection into the veins at the hospital. When this is done, usually the symptoms of paralysis of the eye muscles, confusion and uncoordinated movements are reversed, as well as amnesia is prevented. It is important, in the months following the crisis, that the patient continue to take oral vitamin B1 supplements.
In some cases, supplementation with other substances such as magnesium and potassium may be necessary, especially in alcoholic individuals.
