Korsakoff syndrome is an irreversible syndrome related to deficiency of which vitamin?

• A. Vitamin B1
• B. Vitamin B2
• C. Vitamin B6
• D. Vitamin B12

Answer: (A)

Korsakoff syndrome results from a severe deficiency of thiamine, which is vitamin B1. Thiamine is a crucial cofactor for enzymes that help convert glucose into energy in the brain. When it’s lacking, brain energy production falters, especially in regions with high metabolic demand like the mammillary bodies and thalamus. This leads to an amnestic syndrome marked by profound problems with forming new memories (anterograde amnesia) and recalling past memories (retrograde amnesia), often with confabulation. Once established, the damage is typically irreversible, even if thiamine is later given, though early treatment can prevent progression.

Other B vitamins are associated with different conditions: for example, deficiencies of the others can cause issues like neuropathy, anemia, or skin changes, but they do not produce the characteristic irreversible amnestic syndrome seen with Korsakoff.