[Thiamin deficiency is common in Israel]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Nutritional Science

Context:

• Thiamin deficiency diseases are often considered rare in Israel.
• A study identified 13 patients with thiamin deficiency over one year.
• Deficiency presented with classic syndromes (beriberi, Wernicke's encephalopathy) and nonspecific neurological issues.

Purpose:

• To investigate the prevalence and clinical presentation of thiamin deficiency in an Israeli patient cohort.
• To identify risk factors and patient groups beyond alcoholics susceptible to thiamin deficiency.
• To recommend broader screening and prophylactic measures for thiamin deficiency.

Summary:

• Thiamin deficiency was diagnosed in 13 patients, including those with classic syndromes and less specific neurological symptoms.
• Risk factors included being elderly, solitary, socioeconomically disadvantaged, with poor nutrition, drug abuse, and hyperemesis gravidarum.
• Alcoholics were a minority among the identified cases.

Impact:

• Highlights the underdiagnosis of thiamin deficiency in Israel.
• Suggests routine thiamin level testing for patients with neurological abnormalities like neuropathy, dementia, and gait disorders.
• Recommends prophylactic vitamin B1 (thiamin) for asymptomatic, high-risk individuals to prevent deficiency diseases.