creation date: 2026-08-20 16:20
tags: Pathologies
Korsakoff Syndrome
Background
Definitions
Korsakoff syndrome (KS) is a late neuropsychiatric manifestation of Wernicke encephalopathy.
As with WE, this syndrome arises from thiamine deficiency.
Etiology & Pathogenesis
80% of patients with severe alcohol use disorder recovering from WE exhibit findings of KS. It is a more common sequelae to alcohol-related WE than non-alcohol-related WE.
The manifestations of KS appears to be remnant neurologic findings following the resolution of acute WE manifestations.
Clinical Presentation
Signs & Symptoms
KS is characterized by:
- Marked deficits in anterograde and retrograde memory
- Apathy
- Intact sensorium
- Relative preservation of long-term memory/other cognitive skills
Confabulation may be present and insight is generally poor.
History & Physical Exam
Diagnosis
Criteria
There is no consensus on diagnostic criteria and is generally made clinically though findings and prior WE.
Work-up
Differential
Differential consist of conditions associated with memory loss:
Red Flags / Complications
Management
There is currently no intervention proven to reverse the effects of KS.
Many patients require supervision and social support.