Computed tomographic findings in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

An unconscious patient had a differential diagnosis of coma. Traumatic, metabolic, and infectious origins were considered, but none explained her condition satisfactorily. Clinical features on examination were compatible with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Her condition improved with supportive treatment and thiamine hydrochloride administration. A computed tomographic scan showed large, symmetric, low-density thalamic lesions, the condition of which improved after three months.