Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome mimicking a stroke: A case report

Abstract

Introduction Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with alcoholism (1). Neurometabolic conditions such as WKS may present with a sudden neurological deficit, mimicking the acute onset of a stroke (2). Case presentation A 38-year-old male was admitted due to symptoms resembling vertebrobasilar stroke, including impaired vision, limb weakness, and altered consciousness. The patient had a history of alcohol abuse. CT scan revealed atrophy without any ischemic regions. Blood tests showed megaloblastic anaemia, MMSE - 12. Stroke was ruled out, and a diagnosis of WKS was established. Thiamine therapy was initiated, reducing neurological impairment, but a state of psychosis emerged, necessitating antipsychotics. Due to physical and pharmacological therapy, patient’s state improved, but ongoing care remains necessary.