What is Korsakoff's Syndrome?
Korsakoff's syndrome is a brain disorder that is most commonly due to long-term alcohol misuse which can lead to poor absorption and storage of thiamine (vitamin B1), which affects the brain and nervous system.
What are the symptoms?
Although it is not strictly speaking a dementia, people with the condition experience loss of short term memory, particularly of events arising after the onset of the condition. Sometimes, memories of the more distant past can also be affected. If alcohol misuse is the cause, symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal, such as sweating and tremors, may also be present. Other symptoms may include:
- Difficulty in acquiring new information or learning new skills;
- Lack of insight into the condition;
- Inventing events to fill the gaps in memory (‘confabulation’);
- Apathy, in some cases, or talkative and repetitive behaviour in others.
Treatment & Prognosis
The progress of Korsakoff's can be completely halted if the person completely abstains from alcohol and adopts a healthy diet with vitamin supplements. While it remains unclear whether additional thiamine helps people improve once the brain damage has already occurred, it may help prevent further damage occurring.
Any improvement usually occurs within a period of up to two years. It has been estimated that about a quarter of those affected make a very good recovery. About half make a partial recovery and need support to manage their lives. Another quarter make no recovery and may need long term care. Korsakoff's is likely to continue to progress if the person continues to drink heavily and has poor nutrition.
Further Information
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