Which vitamin deficiency is associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is primarily associated with a deficiency in vitamin B1, also known as thiamin. This neurological disorder is often linked to chronic alcoholism, which can lead to poor dietary intake, impaired absorption, and altered metabolism of thiamin. Thiamin plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism and is vital for the functioning of the neurons and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

In Wernicke's encephalopathy, which is the acute phase of this syndrome, individuals may experience symptoms such as confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia due to thiamin deficiency affecting brain functions. If left untreated, Wernicke's can progress to Korsakoff syndrome, characterized by severe memory disturbances and confabulation.

This deficiency is often misdiagnosed and can lead to significant neurological damage if not addressed promptly. Supplementation with thiamin is an effective treatment that can help reverse some of the symptoms associated with this syndrome, particularly in the acute phase.

Other vitamin deficiencies listed, such as vitamin B12, vitamin C, and vitamin D, are not directly implicated in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome and affect different physiological pathways and conditions.