Korsakoff syndrome
Pronunciation: KOR-sa-koff
A chronic memory disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, characterized by severe anterograde amnesia and confabulation. Often follows Wernicke encephalopathy in alcoholism.
Full Definition
Korsakoff syndrome represents a chronic neurological condition resulting from severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, most commonly seen in chronic alcoholism but also occurring in malnutrition, hyperemesis gravidarum, or bariatric surgery complications. The syndrome is characterized by profound anterograde amnesia (inability to form new memories), variable retrograde amnesia, and confabulation (fabrication of memories to fill gaps). Patients typically maintain normal immediate memory and general cognitive abilities but cannot transfer information from short-term to long-term memory. Korsakoff syndrome often develops following acute Wernicke encephalopathy, and the combined condition is known as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. The underlying pathology involves damage to mammillary bodies, thalamic nuclei, and other structures important for memory formation. Recovery is generally limited even with thiamine replacement.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Russian neuropsychiatrist Sergei Korsakoff. Capitalize the eponym.
In Context
- "The patient developed Korsakoff syndrome following prolonged alcohol abuse and thiamine deficiency." — Addiction medicine consultation
- "Confabulation in Korsakoff syndrome represents an attempt to fill memory gaps rather than deliberate deception." — Neuropsychological assessment report