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Non-Alcoholic Gayet-Wernicke Encephalopathy in an Elderly Malnourished Patient: A Case Report and Review of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Wernicke's encephalopathy results from a thiamine deficiency. It is an underdiagnosed pathology, particularly in the geriatric population, with irreversible consequences. We report a case of a Wernicke's encephalopathy in an elderly patient who was hospitalized for anorexia, in a context of inappropriate re-feeding. Neurological deterioration was observed following the instatement of parenteral nutrition. Brain MRI evidenced anomalies suggestive of Wernicke's encephalopathy. Intravenous treatment with thiamine provided an improvement in mental alertness, nevertheless contrasting with an aggravation of her cognitive disorders. This case illustrates the gravity of Wernicke's encephalopathy, which entails a risk of severe complications among elderly, malnourished patients. It is a diagnostic and therapeutic emergency.

Source: Scholars Journal of Medical Case Reports

DOI: 10.36347/sjmcr.2024.v12i09.005

Authors: Khalil Chafi, Taoufik Boubga, Habib Bellamlih, Amine Bentaher, Soufiane Belabbes, Taoufik Africha, Brahim Zainoun

Institutions: Hôpital Militaire Moulay Ismail, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University

Language: English

Topic: Alcoholism and Thiamine Deficiency

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4402315535

FWCI:

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