Unrecognized Wernicke Encephalopathy in Pregnancy: Clinical Worsening After Surgery Highlights Diagnostic Oversight

Author(s)	Dr. Ayoub Khallati, Prof. Dr. Abderrahim El Bouazzaoui, Prof. Dr. Brahim Boukatta, Prof. Dr. Nawfal Houari, Prof. Dr. Soumaya Touzani, Prof. Dr. Nabil Kanjaa
Country	Morocco
Abstract	Background: Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine deficiency. Though often linked to alcoholism, it can result from prolonged vomiting during pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum).Case Presentation: We describe the case of a 21-year-old primigravida at 16 weeks’ gestation, presenting with incoercible vomiting. Initial investigations revealed hepatic cytolysis and biliary sludge. Post-surgical deterioration led to neuropsychiatric symptoms. Brain MRI revealed periaqueductal hyperintensities suggestive of WE. High-dose intravenous thiamine resulted in marked clinical improvement.Conclusion: WE is a medical emergency that should be considered in pregnant women with persistent vomiting. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible complications.
Keywords	Wernicke encephalopathy, hyperemesis gravidarum, thiamine deficiency, pregnancy, neurological emergency,Postoperative Neurological Deterioration
Field	Medical / Pharmacy
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 3, May-June 2025
Published On	2025-05-16
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i03.44277
Short DOI	https://doi.org/g9kfk2

About IJFMR Fees & Payment Current Issue Publication Archive	Submit Research Paper Track Submission Status Publication Guidelines Publication Ethics Peer Review & Plagiarism	Join as a Reviewer Editors & Reviewers Reviewer Referral Program Get Reviewer Membership Certi.	Website/Journal Policies Usage Policy Content Policies Privacy Policy

Contact Us		+91-9687-828-838	editor@ijfmr.com

International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research