Question

Which vitamin deficiency is associated with Wernicke’s encephalopathy?

• A. Vitamin B1
• B. Vitamin B6
• C. Vitamin B12
• D. Vitamin D

Hint:

Always give thiamine before glucose in suspected B1 deficiency to avoid precipitating Wernicke’s encephalopathy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Wernicke’s encephalopathy is a serious neurological condition characterized by confusion, ophthalmoplegia (paralysis of the muscles surrounding the eyes), and ataxia (lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements). It occurs due to a deficiency in a specific vitamin. The correct vitamin that, when deficient, is associated with Wernicke’s encephalopathy, is Vitamin B1.

The condition is predominantly observed in individuals with chronic alcoholism, although it can also result from malnutrition, gastric issues, or any condition leading to malabsorption of nutrients.

Vitamin B1, also known as Thiamine, plays a crucial role in brain function. A deficiency impairs the metabolic pathways that provide energy to the brain, thus leading to the symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy.

Considering the options given:

• Vitamin B1: Correct—associated with Wernicke’s encephalopathy.
• Vitamin B6: Needed for neurotransmitter synthesis but not directly linked to Wernicke's.
• Vitamin B12: Deficiency leads to other neurological disorders but not Wernicke's.
• Vitamin D: Important for bone health, not linked to Wernicke’s.

In conclusion, a deficiency in Vitamin B1 specifically leads to Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Ensuring adequate intake of this vitamin is crucial for maintaining neurological health.