Peripheral polyneuropathy from thiamine deficiency following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Abstract

The neurologic form of beriberi has been described in multiple case reports following bariatric surgery for morbid obesity. Thiamine deficiency occurs due to marked emesis and/or altered absorption secondary to the reconfiguration of the gastrointestinal tract to achieve the malabsorption needed to achieve weight loss. This case report illustrates the typical presentation of a patient after gastric bypass, and highlights the symptoms that bariatric surgeons must detect and reviews the treatment. © FD-Communications Inc.