Wernicke korsakoff syndrome as a rare complication of hyperemesis gravidarum: A case report

Abstract

Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome is a rare brain disorder secondary to Thiamine deficiency. We report here a rare case 40-year-old Gravida3 Para 2, at 12 weeks of gestational age with severe hyperemesis gravidarum. The symptomatology was aggravated by acute installation of drowsiness, a diplopia, and a progressive change in the state of Consciousness; symptoms suggesting Wernicke Korakoff syndrome. The diagnosis was confirmed with MRI imaging and later by thiamine level dosage. The patient conditions improved after High dosage Thiamine supplementation therapy. Wernicke's encephalopathy is a rare complication of hyperemesis gravidarum. EARLY Diagnosis and thiamine supplementation are the main keys to prevent long-term neurological sequela or death. Prevention with Thiamine supplementation should be initiated in all pregnant women with prolonged vomiting.