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MR Imaging of nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy: a follow-up study
Chunjiu Zhong1, Lirong Jin, Guoqiang Fei
1Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
We investigated the correlation of MR imaging features with the pathological evolution and prognosis of nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy. A retrospective review and analysis was conducted of 6 cases of nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy, consisting of MR imaging features, clinical characteristics, and outcomes after thiamine administration. One patient died, 1 patient entered a persistent vegetative state, and the others recovered fully from Wernicke encephalopathy within 2 weeks to 1 year after thiamine administration. Typical MR imaging showed areas of increased T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) signals symmetrically surrounding the aqueduct and the third ventricle, at the floor of fourth ventricle, in the medial thalami, and in the capita of caudate nuclei. Two patients presenting without coma showed increased T2-weighted and FLAIR signals of the periaqueductal area only. All 4 patients presenting with coma showed increased T2-weighted and FLAIR signals symmetrically in the medial thalami and in the capita of caudate nuclei. Of the 4 patients with coma, 2 patients with deep coma showed increased T2-weighted and FLAIR signals in the medial thalami and caudate nuclei as well as in the frontal and parietal cortices. According to the follow-up results, increased T2-weighted and FLAIR signals in the 4 patients without cortical damage decreased in intensity, consistent with clinical recovery within 2 weeks to 1 year. The patient in a persistent vegetative state exhibited progressive atrophy of the whole brain during the 2 years of the follow-up study. MR imaging is helpful not only to diagnose acute nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy but also to evaluate the pathologic evolution and prognosis of the disorder.
Insights
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging aids in diagnosing nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy and predicting patient outcomes. Specific MR imaging patterns correlate with disease severity and recovery after thiamine treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy is a neurological condition often associated with thiamine deficiency.
- Accurate diagnosis and prognosis are crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To correlate magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features with the pathological evolution and prognosis of nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy.
- To assess the utility of MR imaging in evaluating disease progression and treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 6 nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy cases.
- Review of MR imaging features, clinical characteristics, and outcomes post-thiamine administration.
Main Results:
- Typical MR imaging findings included symmetrical T2-weighted and FLAIR hyperintensities in specific brain regions.
- The extent and location of these signal changes correlated with clinical presentation (coma) and prognosis.
- Resolution of MR imaging abnormalities paralleled clinical recovery in most patients.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is valuable for diagnosing acute nonalcoholic Wernicke encephalopathy.
- MR imaging features can predict pathological evolution and prognosis, guiding treatment strategies.
- MR imaging findings correlate with clinical outcomes following thiamine therapy.
