Wernicke's encephalopathy n an inflammatory hemorrhagic encephalopathy that is caused by thiamine deficiency, affects esp. chronic alcoholics, and is characterized by nystagmus, diplopia, ataxia, and degenerative mental disorders (as Korsakoff's psychosis)
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mental confusion or delirium occurring in combination with paralysis of the eye muscles, nystagmus, and an unsteady gait. It is caused by a deficiency of vitamin B1 (thiamin) and is most commonly seen in alcoholics and in patients with persistent vomiting or an unbalanced diet. Treatment with thiamin relieves the symptoms.
K. Wernicke (1848-1905), German neurologist
Medical dictionary. 2011.