special subjects
Wernicke Encephalopathy
Prognosis for Wernicke Encephalopathy
Prognosis depends on timely diagnosis of Wernicke encephalopathy. If begun in time, treatment may correct all abnormalities. Ocular symptoms usually begin to abate within 24 hours after early thiamin administration. Ataxia and confusion may persist for days to months. Memory and learning impairment may not resolve completely. Untreated, the disorder progresses; mortality is 10 to 20%. Of surviving patients, 80% develop Korsakoff Psychosis ; the combination is called Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome. 