Wernicke Encephalopathy: Understanding Thiamine Deficiency Brain Disorder

Wernicke encephalopathy is an acute neurological disorder caused by severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. It is characterized by the classic triad of:

• Confusion
• Ophthalmoplegia (eye movement abnormalities)
• Ataxia (gait disturbance)

Prompt thiamine replacement is critical to prevent progression to Korsakoff syndrome (permanent memory impairment). Common in alcohol use disorder and malnutrition.