A Rare Complication Developing After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Wernicke's Encephalopathy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Hematology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Thiamine (vitamin B1) is essential for neurological function.
• Thiamine deficiency leads to Wernicke's encephalopathy, characterized by confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia.
• This neurological complication is infrequently associated with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of Wernicke's encephalopathy.
• To describe the presentation in a patient undergoing haploidentical allogeneic HSCT for acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
• To emphasize the potential role of prolonged total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in thiamine deficiency post-HSCT.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient with AML.
• Detailed clinical observation and treatment course following haploidentical allogeneic HSCT.
• Review of literature regarding Wernicke's encephalopathy post-HSCT and TPN.

Main Results:

• The patient developed classic symptoms of Wernicke's encephalopathy.
• The condition occurred during prolonged TPN after haploidentical allogeneic HSCT for AML.
• This represents the first reported case from Turkey.

Conclusions:

• Wernicke's encephalopathy is a rare but significant neurological complication that can occur after HSCT.
• Prolonged TPN may increase the risk of thiamine deficiency in HSCT recipients.
• Early recognition and thiamine supplementation are crucial for managing this condition in at-risk patients.