Identifying, Assessing, and Treating Korsakoff Syndrome Patients: Updated Perspectives

J Nerv Ment Dis. 2021 Aug 1;209(8):592-599. doi: 10.1097/NMD.0000000000001351.

Abstract

Objectives consist of updating published reports on the recognition, assessment, and care of patients with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS). Methods included defining relevant terms, describing core clinical phenomena, conducting meaningful reviews for latter-day WKS publications, and selecting instructive case examples. Findings covered epidemiology, precipitants, neuroimaging studies, alternate learning strategies in WKS, adjunctive treatments, and promising research. In conclusion, patients, their family members, clinicians, and public health experts should benefit from this updated knowledge. Countries with substantial alcohol consumption should consider emulating Holland in designating WKS research centers, founding regional clinical facilities, and funding multidisciplinary expert teams.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Korsakoff Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Korsakoff Syndrome / physiopathology*
  • Korsakoff Syndrome / therapy*