Wernicke Encephalopathy Secondary to Hyperemesis Gravidarum in a 22-Year-Old Female Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Wernicke encephalopathy is an acute, reversible neurological disorder, which, if untreated, can develop into Korsakoff syndrome. Commonly associated with alcohol use disorder, Wernicke encephalopathy is a metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency of thiamine, vitamin B1. This case report presents a clinical manifestation of Wernicke encephalopathy, in which a 22-year-old pregnant female with hyperemesis gravidarum and significant weight loss developed acute metabolic encephalopathy. Diagnostic imaging played an important role both in diagnosing the patient acutely in the hospital and during a follow-up visit one year after treatment.