Wernicke Encephalopathy Presenting with Severe Pancytopenia: A Rare Clinical Association
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) is a severe neurological disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, commonly associated with chronic alcoholism. Early recognition and treatment are critical to prevent irreversible neurological damage. We present a case of a 38-year-old male with chronic alcoholism and fatty liver disease who presented with confusion, ataxia, and hematological abnormalities. Initial investigations revealed anemia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated inflammatory markers. MRI findings were consistent with Wernicke's encephalopathy. The patient received intravenous thiamine, antibiotics, and supportive care. Despite complications including severe pancytopenia and pneumonia, he showed clinical improvement with multidisciplinary management. This case underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis, aggressive thiamine supplementation and vigilant monitoring in the management of WE, particularly in atypical presentations.
Institution: Gulf Medical University
Language: English
Subfield: Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4409585364