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 caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, commonly seen in chronic alcoholism, malnutrition, and prolonged vomiting. It is characterized by the triad of ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and confusion. Thiamine is an essential coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism; deficiency impairs neuronal energy metabolism.