Marchiafava-Bignami Disease and Pellagra in a Chronic Alcohol User: A Reversible Case of Cognitive Impairment

Diogo Ramos1, André Valente1, Rodrigo Leão2,1

  • 1Internal Medicine, Unidade Local de Saúde de São José, Lisbon, PRT.

Cureus
|February 24, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Marchiafava-Bignami disease (MBD) and pellagra, both linked to malnutrition in alcoholism, can co-occur. Early diagnosis and B-complex vitamin treatment are crucial for recovery from these severe neurological and dermatological conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Marchiafava-Bignami disease (MBD) is a rare demyelinating condition of the corpus callosum, often seen in chronic alcoholism.
  • Pellagra, caused by niacin (vitamin B3) deficiency, presents with dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, frequently linked to malnutrition.

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